A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 


THE    HISTORY 


THE   THIRD   REGIMENT 


LOUISIANA  INFANTRY. 


BY    W.    H.    TUNKAED. 


CONTAINING    A 


COMPLETE    RECORD    OF   THE    CAMPAIGNS    IN    ARKANSAS   AND    MISSOURI  ;    THE    BATTLES 

OF  OAK  HILLS,  ELK   HORN,  IUKA,  CORINTH  ;    THE   SECOND  SIEGE  OF  VICKSBCRG, 

ANECDOTES,    CAMPS,     SCENERY,     AND    DESCRIPTION     OF     THE     COUNTRY 

THROUGH   WHICH   THE    REGIMENT   MARCHED,    ETC.,    ETC. 


'Let  us  then  be  up  and  doing, 
With  a  heart  for  every  fate; 
Still  achieving,  still  pursuing, 
Learn  to  labor  and  to  wait." 

LONTFEI.IOW. 


BATON  ROUGE,  LA.  : 

IP  K,  I  IT  T  E  ID     IF1  O  :R,     THE     .A.  TJ  T  H  O  It  - 
18GG. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1366, 
BY  WILLIAM   H.  TUNXAED, 

In  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Court  of  the-  United  States  for  the  Eastern 
District  of  Louisiana. 


BRIG.  GEN.  BEN.  M?  CULLOCH 


DEDICATI0N. 


TO  THE 

CHEEI8HED  MEMORY  OF  THE  SEVERED  DEAD,  AND  THE  UNDAUNTED 
GALLANTRY   OP   THE   HEROIC   LIVING, 


(Dflkers  stiir 


THIRD  REGIMENT  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY 


I  RESPECTFULLY   DEDICATE 


THIS  VOLUME. 


MJL98604 


"And  while  adversity's  chill  blast 
Sweeps  like  a  besom  o'er  our  land, 
And  round  her  bleeding  form  are  cast 
The  hated  tyrant's  chains  at  last, 
We  still  possess  the  glorious  Past — 
The  victories  of  our  patriot  band, 
The  memories  of  the  fields  of  glory, 
Which  aye  shall  live  in  song  and  story, 
To  cheer  the  brave  and  shame  the  coward— 
By  that  blue  heaven  bending  o'er  us, 
By  that  green  earth  spread  out  before  us, 
By  that  dear  fame  of  those  who  bore  us, 
We  are  not  whipped,  but  overpowered." 

CRIMSON. 


PEBFACE. 


THAT  "  truth  is  stranger  than  fiction"  is  an  axiom  as  correct  as  it 
is  trite.  Thus  I  claim  for  these  pages  of  history  a  strict  adherence 
to  truthfulness  in  recording  actual  occurrences,  facts  garnered 
from  the  great  and  bloody  drama  of  the  late  war,  around 
which  lingers  the  halo  of  imperishable  glory,  possessing  all 
the  fascination  and  interest  of  romance.  This  record  has  been 
dotted  down  on  the  long  and  weary  march,  in  the  quiet  camp, 
within  breastworks  and  besieged  strongholds,  before  and  after  the 
fierce  conflict  of  deadly  strife— a  correct  record  of  events  as  they 
actually  occurred,  they  are  presented  to  the  public.  I  have  indulged 
in  few  fancies  of  the  imagination,  nor  do  I  claim  for  this  work  any 
peculiar  literary  excellence.  Simple  in  construction  of  sentences, 
unpretending  in  style  of  composition,  it  is  given  to  the  public  for 
perusal  as  one  of  the  many  bloody  chapters  in  the  history  of  the  late 
Revolution,  when  Southerners  endeavored,  by  force  of  arms,  to 
establish  their  independence  and  preserve  untarnished  the  princi 
ples  of  constitutional  liberty  bequeathed  to  them  by  their  ancestors, 
and  baptized  and  consecrated  with  their  best  blood,  from  the  des 
potic  domination  of  Radicalism.  The  attempt  has  most  signally 
failed  ;  and  while  the  Southern  people  accept  the  issue  of  the  strug 
gle  as  the  unalterable  decree  of  a  mysterious  Providence,  such 
records  of  the  past,  as  contained  in  this  volume,  will  be  regarded 
as  priceless  mementoes  of  heroic  deeds,  an  imperishable  epitome  of 
gallant  achievements,  fierce  conflicts,  determined  valor  and  patient 
and  long-enduring  suffering  of  those  brave  men  who  sacrificed  their 
lives,  devoted  their  energies  and  efforts  toward  the  establishment 
of  long-cherished  principles  and  institutions. 

Mere  history  can  furnish  only  a  tithe  of  the  vivid  reality  of  war 
like  scenes.  Perusing  its  pages,  the  reader  gleans  only  the  record 
of  gallant  achievements,  lives  in  the  midst  of  scenes  befitting  a 
romance,  and  not  stern  realities.  Thus  there  is  a  strange  fascination 
in  such  compilations. 

War  has  existed  almost  since  the  creation  of  the  universe,  and  its 


X  PREFACE. 

records,  from  ancient  days  down  to  modern  times,  when  Napoleon 
electrified  the  world  with  his  brilliant  victories,  possess  peculiar 
attractions,  deep  interest.  Yet  the  reader  gathers  not  from  the 
pages  of  history,  with  its  glowing  descriptions  and  all  the  attendant 
pomp  and  glory  of  the  struggle,  its  attendant  horrors,  the  deadly 
conflict,  the  untold  agony,  the  accumulated  trials,  the  unspeakable 
suffering,  unbearable  anguish  which  accompany  the  dark  side  of 
the  brilliant,  fascinating  picture. 

"Pis  well  that  it  should  be  so.  There  are  few,  however,  especially 
in  this  suffering,  ruined  Southern  land,  who  do  not  understand,  ay, 
know  from  experience  dearly  purchased,  what  war  means  in  the 
fullest  signification  of  the  term. 

This  book  is  a  chapter  from  its  bloodiest  record.  It  has  been 
compiled  amid  business  pursuits,  and  the  bustle  and  turmoil  of  a 
great  commercial  city,  in  the  still  hours  of  the  night  and  the  gray 
dawn  of  morn  ;  from  published  letters  written  during  the  war, 
private  notes,  and  such  official  documents  as  have  been  preserved 
from  the  ruin  of  defeat.  The  author  has  labored  under  peculiar 
disadvantages,  being  deprived  of  official  records  and  documents, 
and  has  been  compelled  to  rely  on  his  present  experience  and  infor 
mation,  and  such  notes  and  papers  as  could  be  obtained  from  the 
surviving  members  of  the  Regiment. 

If  he  has  failed  in  presenting  as  complete  and  interesting  a  work 
as  the  subject  demands,  it  is  a  fault  not  of  the  head  or  heart,  but 
simply  as  stated,  because  his  sources  for  obtaining  necessary  infor 
mation  have  been  not  only  limited,  but  very  meagre. 

Few  organizations  during  the  late  war  gained  a  more  enviable 
reputation  than  the  Third  Regiment  Louisiana  Infantry. 

An  isolated  Regiment,  among  other  troops,  its  gallant  men  bore 
their  banner  triumphantly  through  the  sulphureous  canopy  and 
thunder-voices  of  deadly  conflicts,  making,  by  their  heroic  deeds 
and  undaunted  bravery,  an  imperishable  record  on  the  scroll  of 
time ;  a  name  that  "  shall  live  in  song  and  story,"  and  of  which 
Louisiana  may  well  be  proud.  Its  honored  dead  slumber  'neath  the 
soil  of  many  States ;  its  gallant  survivors,  with  a  spirit  worthy  their 
self-sacrificing  devotion,  have  accepted  the  finale  of  the  fierce  con 
test,  and  are  now  found  both  in  positions  of  honor  and  trust  as  well 
as  the  humbler  stations  of  life,  striving  to  regain  and  repair  their 
shattered  fortunes.  I  know  of  no  more  satisfactory  labor,  no 
pleasanter  mental  task,  than  this  self-imposed  work  of  commemorat 
ing  the  sacrifices  of  the  former,  and  the  unconquerable  valor  of  the 
latter,  rendered  still  more  distinguished  by  the  spirit  with  which 


PREFACE.  xi 

they  have  received  and  accepted  their  defeat.  Our  revered  dead 
shall  live  ever  fresh  and  green  in  our  memories,  while  the  living  are 
united  in  those  indissoluble  bonds  which  bind  brave  spirits  to  each 
other,  cemented  by  common  dangers  and  sufferings,  and  a  stern 
defence  of  cherished  principles. 

Imperfect  as  this  record  may  be,  it  is  given  to  the  public  not  for 
criticism,  but  as  a  compilation  of  facts,  exhibiting  some  of  the  innu 
merable  thrilling  scenes  through  which  Southerners  bore  their  ban 
ner,  now  furled  forever — scenes  in  which  they  participated  as  votive 
actors. 

I  regret  exceedingly  that  this  record  is  so  meagre,  my  sources  of 
information  so  limited,  but  believe  and  know  that  I  have  written 
nothing  save  actual  occurrences,  which,  I  trust,  may  meet  the  ap 
proval  and  commendation  of  my  friends  and  former  comrades. 

W.  H.  TUNNARD. 
BATON  ROUGE,  LA.,  August,  1866. 


PERS  ONAL. 

I  DEEM  it  but  an  act  of  justice  to  myself  to  state,  that  I  have 
been  compelled  to  mention  my  own  name,  in  connection  with  the 
several  occurrences  in  this  History,  not  that  I  desire  to  arrogate  to 
myself  any  undue  share  of  the  fame  gained  by  the  Regiment,  nor  do 
I  wish  to  be  considered  egotistical.  To  others  is  given  the  privilege 
of  praising  or  condemning  my  actions.  I  was  an  active  participator 
in  the  battles  of  Oak  Hill  and  Elk  Horn ;  but.  at  the  reorganization 
of  the  Regiment,  May  8,  1862,  was  detailed  in  the  Commissary 
Department,  and  followed  the  fortunes  of  the  Regiment  as  a  non- 
combatant.  I  do  not  desire  my  motives  to  be  misunderstood,  nor 
my  record  to  become  the  subject  of  uncalled-for  criticism.  Hence 
this  explanation. 

THE  AUTHOR. 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  I. 

History  —  Secession  —  Commencement  of  the  War — The  Provisional  Gov 
ernment—The  Author's  Connection  with  the  Army— Call  for  Troops—      . 
The  Pelican  Rifles,  of  Baton  Rouge— Scenes  of  Farewell — Arrival  in  New 
Orleans— Camp  Walker— Its  Scenes,  Duties,  and  Discipline,  ...     21 

CHAPTER    II. 

The  Organization  of  the  Regiment — Colonel  Louis  Hebert — Lieutenant-Col 
onel  S.  M.  Hyams,  Sr.  —  Major  W.  F.  Tunnard— The  First  Review,  May 
17th,  1861— The  Departure— Bound  for  Fort  Smith— The  Reception  at 
Baton  Rouge,  La.— The  First  Funeral— A  Rich  Joke  about  Guard  Mount 
ing,  27 

CHAPTER    III. 

Camp  at  Little  Rock  —The  Arsenal  Gounds— Arkansas  Volunteers— Flag 
Presentation— Miss  Faulkner's  Address— Love, 35 


CHAPTER    IV. 

Camp  Poteau,  Arkansas— Arrival  of  Col.  Hebert— The  First  Regimental 
Court-Martial — Missouri— Marching  Orders— First  Detachment— Second 
Detachment— July  4th,  1S61— The  March— Baston  Mountain— "  Them 
Gammons  "  Springs— The  Country — Neosho  Captured — Arrival  at  Camp 
Jackson— The  Return  of  General  B.  McCulloch — His  Stratagem  and  Suc 
cess,  •  .  .  ,  .  37 

CHAPTER  V. 

Camp  Jackson,  Arkansas,  July  10th,  1861— Marching  Orders— Bentonville, 
Arkansas— Camp  Stephens,  Arkansas— The  Storm— The  Skirmish  and 
First  Prisoner — Ladies— Music— Death— Trouble— The  March  into  Mis 
souri—Arrival  at  Keatsville,  Missouri— The  Heroic  Lady,  .  42 

CHAPTER    VI. 

Cassville— The  Advance— Arrival  at  Crane  Creek— Excitement— The  Am 
buscade—The  Position  —  Picketing— Consultation— The  Midnight  Ad- 


XIV  CONTENTS. 

vance  Surprise  the  Yankee  Picket— Greer's  Texas  Regiment — An  Excit 
ing  Pursuit — Wilson's  Creek— Camp  Again, 45 

CHAPTER  VII. 

"  Oak  Hills"— Marching  Orders— Detained— August  10th,  1861— Surprised 
— Going  into  Battle — The  First  Struggle— Success— Zouave  Tactics — 
Led  by  General  McCulloch— His  Coolness— Corporal  H.  H.  Gentles's  Fatal 
Aim— Siegel's  Battery  Captured— Flanking  Totten's  Battery— His  Escape 
— Death  of  General  Lyon  —  Victory— Greer's  Regiment— Burying  the 
Dead — Regimental  Official  Reports — General  S.  Price's  Congratulatory 
Order— Reports  of  Casualties— Dr.  W.  G.  Kendall— Hon.  W.  Robson— 
Anecdotes  and  Incidents — Reports  of  General  Price  and  Ben  McCulloch,  50 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

Leaving  the  Battle-Ground — Wilson's  Springs— General  Order  No.  27 — 
The  Missourians  Depart— Trouble  with  the  Missouri  State  Guard— De 
parture  of  Arkansians — Suffering  and  Sickness — The  Yankee  Camp — 
The  Battle-Field,  August  24th,  1861 — Return  to  Arkansas— Greetings  on 
the  March— Hospital  at  Mount  Vernon,  Missouri— Visitors  and  a  Catas 
trophe — Scenery  on  the  March — Sarcoxie,  Missouri — Curiosity  of  Ladies 
— A  Rich  Joke  on  the  Major — Floral  Decorations — Gran  by  and  its  Lead 
Mines— Miss  Kate  Wilson — Arrival  at  Camp  Jackson,  .  .  .  .77 

CHAPTER  IX. 

Explanation  of  the  Return — Trouble— Good  News— Summary  of  the  Cam 
paign — "  Mon  Blanket" 83 

CHAPTER  X. 

Camp  Jackson— Suffering  and  Disease — Major  Tunnard  Among  the  Chero- 
kees— Mrs.  Cunningham's  Kindness— Major  Leaves  on  Furlough — The 
Appeal  for  Troops — Death — Monotony — The  Exploding  Caisson — Pun 
ishment  for  Theft— General  Price's  Success — Terrible  Condition  of  the 
Third  Louisiana  Regiment— The  Storm, 85 

CHAPTER  XI. 

Amusements— Foot-Ball — Clothing  for  Company  K  from  Home— The  Reg 
iment  Uniformed  by  Louisiana— A  Tribute  to  the  Campaign  Sewing 
Society  of  Baton  Rouge, 90 

CHAPTER   XII. 

The  Fall  Campaign — Marching  Orders— Pay — Governor  Jackson  of  Mis 
souri  and  the  Regiment— A  Fearful  Tragedy  —  Neosho — Advance —  Re 
treat — Missourians — A  Distinguished  Conclave  —  Excitement — Halt  at 
Camp  McCulloch — Missourians  Return — "Bear" — "Retrograding" — Cap- 


CONTENTS.  XV 

tain  Brusle  Appointed  to  Muster  in  the  Indians— Departure— The  Coun 
try  and  Farms— Fare— Water— Mr.  Jones— Prairies— Tom  Starr,  Moses 
Riddle,  Mr.  Rubbs— The  Smith  Family  at  North  Fork— R.  Ross— Weath 
er  Creek  Agency— The  Spirit  of  War— Muster  Return,  .  .  .  .94= 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

Camp  McCulloch— Autumn  Scenery — Tennessee's  Gift  to  General  Price — 
Visiting — Returning  the  Call  —  A  Dilemna—  The  Major's  Return — The 
Situation— Consultation— Preparations  to  Meet  the  Foe—"  Shot  at  by  a 
Corn-shock  " — Voting  for  President— The  Enemy  Retreat— Winter— The 
Cavalry — Cleaning  out  Blockaded  Roads — Review  and  Muster — General 
McCulloch's  Personnel — The  Fall  Races — Seizure  and  Confiscation  of 
Contraband  "  Goods  " — Robbery— Breaking  up  Camp  McCulloch— The 
"  King's  English  "  in  Arkansas, 103 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

Camp  Benjamin — At  Cross  Hollows,  Arkansas — Winter-Quarters — Jovial 
ity  and  Comfort— Captain  T.  L.  Maxwell,  A.  C.  S.— Punishment— «  Rid 
ing  on  a  Rail" — Regimental  Court-Martial — Winter  Scenes  and  Sports 
— Christmas — The  Flag-Pole—Social  Gatherings  and  Frolics— Sickness — 
The  Hospital— Orders  to  Prepare  for  Action— Fire— The  16th  Day  of 
February,  1861— The  Ladies'  "  Good-Bye  "—Departure,  .  .  .  .110 


CHAPTER  XV. 

The  Author  Leaves  for  Fayetteville,  Arkansas— Companies  A  and  K — 
"  Civilization  Again — Songs  and  Serenades — Another  Gift  from  Tennes 
see  for  the  Missourians — The  Missouri  Confederates — Winter  Scenery — 
Christmas  Toasts  and  Jokes — Siegel's  Gun — Colonel  J.  Mclntosh's  Vic 
tory  over  Opothleyhola — Generals  Sterling  Price  and  Ben  McCulloch  — 
The  General  Court-Martial,  January  8th,  1862— Startling  Intelligence — 
General  McCulloch  in  Richmond— Colonel  Hebert  in  Command— Orders 
to  March — A  Brilliant  Winter  Picture  from  Nature—"  Ducking  " — Rare 
Sport — Re-enlistment,  ..........  115 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

The  Early  Spring  Campaign — Price's  Retreat — The  Regiment  on  the  Road 
— The  Enthusiasm  of  the  Pelican  Rifles  and  Iberville  Greys — Scenes  of 
Terror— Confidence  in  the  Louisianians'  Gallantry — The  Skirmish — Re 
treat— A  Night  at  Cross  Hollows— Suffering— General  McCulloch  Ar 
rives — His  Reception — Destruction  of  Camp  Benjamin— Fayetteville— 
Terrible  Pictures  of  War — The  Conflagration  —  The  Third  Louisiana 
Infantry  the  Rear-Guard— Their  Spirit— Punishing  Cowardice — Febru 
ary  22d,  1863— Endurance, 123 


XVI  CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER  XVII. 

Baston  Mountain — The  Cavalry  Raid — Plenty  and  Rest— Prisoners — Major- 
General  Earl  Van  Dorn — The  Advance — Captures — Rapid  Marching — 
Siegel  Almost  Surprised — A  Sharp  Skirmish — Siegel  Escapes — The  Eve 
of  Battle— General  B.  McCulloch  .  128 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

Elk  Horn  Tavern— A  Brilliant  Cavalry  Charge— The  Indians— "No  More 
Boom"— Going  Into  Battle— Desperate  Fighting— Battery  Captured— 
Surrounded — The  Enemy's  Cavalry  Punished — Generals  McCulloch  and 
Mclntosh  Killed — Grief  of  the  Louisianians — Colonel  Hebert,  Major  Tun- 
nard,  and  other  Officers  Prisoners— Our  Losses— Join  General  Price — 
His  Success— Sergeant  W.  Kinney's  Account  of  the  Battle — Captain 
Gilmore's  Report—"  Who  was  Captain  Gilmore's  Body  Servant,"  .  .  132 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

The  Retreat — Not  Whipped — Starvation — Horrors  of  the  Retreat — Captain 
Goode — Our  Officers  Exchanged — Their  Reception  at  Camp  Poteau — 
General  E.  Van  Dorn's  Official  Report— A  Sketch  of  General  McCulloch 
—Attack  on  His  Operations  by  J.  W.  Tucker— McCul loch's  Reply  in  the 
Richmond  Whig—HLia  Popularity, 144 


CHAPTER  XX. 

The  March  Eastward — Death  of  Lieutenant  T.  R.  Brunat — Abandonment  of 
Arkansas— Sickness — A  Mournful  Burial — Departure  from  Little  Rock — 
Arrival  at  Memphis,  Tennessee— The  Departure  —  Ovation — Arrival  at 
Corinth,  Mississippi,  161 

CHAPTER  XXI. 

Events  at  Corinth— Excitement— Picketing — Reorganization— Dissatisfac 
tion— Fight  at  Farmington— Field-Officers :  Colonel  Frank  C.  Armstrong, 
Lieutenant-Colonel  J.  B.  Gilmore,  Major  Sam.  D.  Russell— Skirmish 
ing— The  Rifled  Battery— A  Stampede— "  Who  Ran ?"—  Betrayed— A 
Prisoner— Maneuvering — Retreat  from  Corinth— Rain — Mud,  .  .  165 

CHAPTER  XXII. 

Tupelo,  Mississippi— General  L.  Hebert— Furloughs— Well-Digging— Road- 
Building — Reviews— Our  Flag— Enthusiasm  Over  Victories — Colonel  F. 
C.  Armstrong's  Farewell— Bathing— Colonel  Gilmore's  Sorrel  Pony — 
Changing  Camp — Hebert's  Brigade — Scarcity  of  Provisions — Trouble — 
Camp  Sattillo — Guard-Mounting — Preaching — The  "  Owls  "  in  Camp — 
The  "Peach  Cobbler "  —  The  Colonel's  "  Owl"  —  The  Colonel's  Ar 
tillery,  .  173 


CONTENTS.  XV11 

CHAPTER  XXIII. 

The  Advance  Eastward— Arrival  at  Baldwin,  Mississippi— Skirmishing- 
Building  Railroad — Proximity  of  the  Yankees — Advance  on  luka — Its 
Capture— Immense  Quantity  of  Stores— The  "Rebels"  Enjoy  Them 
selves—Feast  and  Fun — Picketing — Enemies— Hebert's  Brigade  —  The 
Battle  of  luka — Terrific  and  Deadly  Fighting — The  Third  Regiment 
Almost  Annihilated— Captain  W.  Kinney's  Report — Doctor  L.  P.  Black 
burn's  Report — The  Retreat — Getting  the  Trains  in  Motion — General 
Price  Profane— The  Loss  of  the  Flag, 180 

CHAPTER  XXIV. 

The  Retreat  to  Baldwin,  Mississippi — Kindness  of  the  Ladies — Mrs.  Belch 
er — March  Westward — Junction  with  General  Van  Dorn's  Forces — The 
Battle  of  Corinth  —  Success — Defeat— Desperate  Contest — Heroism — 
Almost  Surrounded — A  Narrow  Escape — Arrival  at  Holley  Springs,  Mis 
sissippi — Terrible  Condition  of  the  Army — Major  Tunnard  Arrives — 
Major-Generals  Van  Dorn  and  Price's  Reports,  .  190 

CHAPTER  XXV. 

Camp  Rogers,  Mississippi— Third  Brigade,  Maury's  Division— Winter  and 
Want — The  Mississippians — Division  Review — Chivalry  and  Beauty — 
Marching  Orders  —  Sufferings— The  Texans  Remount— The  Ruse  for 
Shelter — Colonel  Witherspoon's  Message — Defiance  and  Excitement — The 
Retreat— Camp  near  Abbeville,  Mississippi, 210 

CHAPTER  XXVI. 

The  Tallahatchie  Breastworks — The  Planter's  Swine — Return  of  Lieutenant 
Washburn— A  Visit  from  Major  Tunnard— Saluting  the  Bugle— The 
Enemy  Once  More — Retreat — Warlike  Scenes— Oxford,  Grenada — Flank 
Attack  —  Oakland  —  Yankees  Punished  —  The  Ambuscade  —  President 
Davis  and  General  Joe  Johnston — The  Review, 214 

CHAPTER  XXVII. 

The  March  to  Yazoo  City— Down  the  Yazoo— Snyder  Bluff— Defences— 
The  Country — In  the  Breastworks — Operations  Around  the  Hill  City — 
Thunder  of  Artillery — Review — Election — Captain  C.  A.  Brusle  on  Gen 
eral  Hebert's  Staff—  Excitement — The  Gun-Boat— Volunteers  to  Capture 
it — Execution  of  a  Deserter — Fort  Pemberton — New  Uniforms — March 
ing  Orders— Deer  Creek  Expedition — General  Stephen  D.  Lee — The  Dew- 
Drop— A  Storm— Hilarity— A  Novel  Expedition— In  the  Swamp— Trans 
porting  Provisions— General  flebert  Inquisitive — The  Enemy  Retreat— 
Return  to  Snyder  Bluff— Gun-Boats  Scouting — Disaster  to  the  Raft — 
Grand  Levee  Cut — General  D.  H.  Maury's  Departure  —  Scenes  at  Vicks- 
burg— Our  Quarters— The  Attack— Skillful  Artillery  Shooting— Punishing 
Yankee  Incendiaries  —  A  Lively  Skirmish  —  Lieutenant  Cottingham 


XV111  CONTENTS. 

Wounded — A  Daring  Feat — Mortar  Shells — Preparations  to  Evacuate 
— The  Enemy's  Victories  —  Incidents  —  Supplied — "  Themere  Melitea" 
Caught  in  the  Act— Prize  Fighting, 217 

CHAPTER  XXVIII. 

Abandonment  of  Snyder's  Bluff— Ruin  and  Destruction — May  17th,  1863 — 
May  18th— The  Position  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry— General  He- 
bert's  Address  —  The  Response — The  Siege  of  Vicksburg  Begun  —  The 
Surrender  —  Charge  and  Repulse — Caves  —  Women  and  Children  — 
"  Shanghai's  "  Visit — Mining  —  Captain  Gallagher  and  the  Yankee  Offi 
cer— Flag  of  Truce— Gun-Boat  Sunk— Enfield  Rifles— Yankees  Curse  Eng 
land — Rations  Reduced — Suffering — Fire — The  Spirit  of  the  Third  Regi 
ment—Starvation — The  Movable  Breastwork — A  Novel  Destructive  Mis 
sile— It  Succeeds— Excitement — Rain — The  Mortar,  ....  235 


CHAPTER  XXIX. 

The  Twenty-eighth  Day— Close  Shooting— The  Charge— Defeat— Proxim 
ity  of  the  Lines— The  Vicksburg  Whig— The  Rations— A  Terrific  Cannon 
ade — A  Panoramic  View — A  Death  Scene — Amide  Hebert— The  Texans 
Gallantry— The  100-Pounder  Parrott— Horrors  of  War— The  Explosion 
of  June  25th— The  Third  Lousiana  Regiment  Blown  Up— Their  Gallantry 
— A  Fierce  Hand-to-hand  Struggle  —  Hand  Grenades  —  The  Sixth  Mis 
souri  Infantry  "  to  the  Rescue  " — Death  of  Colonel  Irwin,  Grandson  of 
Henry  Clay — Scenes  in  the  City— The  Soldier's  Reverie— Firing  on  the 
Catholics  on  Sunday — Eating  Mule  Flesh — Rats  for  Breakfast — Delicious 
Fare— Undermining  Again — The  Shadow  of  Defeat—The  Hospitals— The 
Soldier's  Burial,  July  1st,  1863— The  Second  Explosion — Horrible  De 
struction  of  Life — The  Missourians  again  Sustain  the  Undismayed  Louisi- 
anians — Scenes  at  the  Hospitals— A  Gloomy  Picture— Famine,  .  .  252 


CHAPTER  XXX. 

The  Surrender — Indignation — July  4th,  1863— Yankee  Sympathy — Specula 
tion — Heroic  Women — Hospitals — "  Contrabands" — General  J.  C.  Pem- 
berton— After  the  Surrender — Paroles— A  Strange  Spectacle — "  Home" — 
Departure — Demoralization  —  Free  —  Incidents  —  The  Cob-Wagon  and 
Mortar  Shell— The  Rules  of  Civilized  Warfare— The  Wounded  Shirt— The 
Last  Meal—"  I  Want  Ter  Go  Home"—"  Simon  says,  Wiggle  Waggle"— 
How  a  Commissary  was  done  for — The  Midnight  Raid — Cabbaging  Cab 
bage—Running  the  Gauntlet, 270 

CHAPTER  XXXI. 

Songs  :  "  Our  Flag  " — "  A  Life  on  the  Vicksburg  Hills  " — "  Do  They  Miss 
Me  in  the  Trench  ?"— "  The  Rainbow  of  Hope  "  —  General  F  C.  Arm 
strong's  Letter-Doctor  W.  A.  Moss— Doctor  P.  F.  Whitehead,  .  .  293 


CONTENTS.  XIX 

CHAPTER  XXXII. 

EAST  OF  THE  MISSISSIPPI. 

The  Returned  Veteran— Freedom— Home— Rest, ......  299 

CHAPTER  XXXIII. 

Furloughs  Expired — Camp  near  Demopolis,  Alabama — Idleness — The  Expe 
dition — Lost  on  the  Tombigbee  River — The  Flag  from  General  D.  H. 
Maury — Enterprise,  Mississippi— The  Camp — "  Paw  like  a  Goat" — Obey 
ing  Orders — The  Conflagration — Departure  for  Trans-Mississippi  Depart 
ment—Exchange — Consolidation — The  Twenty-Second  Louisiana  Infan 
try,  Company  "  H  " — Mobile,  Alabama — An  Incident,  ....  300 

CHAPTER  XXXIV. 

WEST  OF  THE  MISSISSIPPI. 

The  Blockade  Runners— Success — A  Weary  March — Patriotism  at  Harri- 
sonburg,  Louisiana — Alexandria,  Louisiana — Hospitality  of  Rev.  W.  E.  M. 
Linfeld,  308 

CHAPTER    XXXV. 

The  Parole  Camp— Transportation— The  Deserted  Plantation— Sugar-Cane 
— Scouting — A  Rough  Ride  to  Natchitoches — Grand  Ecore— A  Home  at 
Mrs.  L.  L.  McLauren's — The  Hostess— Pleasant  and  Halcyon  Days — Doc 
tor  W.  B.  Butler— The  Birthday  Dinner— The  Dying  Year-Governor  H. 
W.  Allen— The  Holidays— The  "  Home  Circle  "  on  Tiger  Island,  .  .310 

CHAPTER  XXXVI. 

Camp  at  Grand  Ecore — The  Farewell  Kiss — The  Third  Regiment  Louisiana 
Infantry  Assemble— Dress  Parade— The  Orders— The  Country  Frolic- 
Interruption— "  All  Right" — Pay — Furloughs — Indignation — Oblivion,  .  315 

CHAPTER  XXXVII. 

Camp  near  Pineville,  Louisiana — The  Louisiana  Brigade — ItsMorale — Quie 
tude — Exchange — Organization  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry — Activ 
ity — Military  Executions — The  Ladies  of  New  Orleans  and  the  Confeder 
ate  Prisoners — General  Polignac's  Troops — A  Visit  from  Captains  Gal 
lagher  and  Charles  A.  Brusle  ...'...  .  318 

CHAPTER  XXXVIII. 

Ho!  For  Shreveport— The  " Lelia "—Arrival  at  Grand  Ecore— A  Warm 
Welcome— Generosity  of  Prudhomme  Hyams  —  Arrival  at  "Lac  des 
Meures"  Plantation— Colonel  S.  M.  Hyams's  Generosity  and  Hospitality — 
Captain  Isaacson  a  Prisoner  —  The  Barbecue  —  "Farewell"  —  Up  the 
River 323 


XX  CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER  XXXIX. 

Camp  "Boggs  " — Shreveport — Provost  Guard— Details— Conscripts — Frost 
— Concert — Governor  H.W.  Allen's  Generosity  to  the  Regiment— Recon 
struction— Dissatisfaction— Desertions— Sufferings  at  Soldiers'  Homes,  .  326 

CHAPTER  XL. 

The  Holidays— Christmas  Dinner  in  Camp— Festivities  in  Shreveport— 
Clothing  at  Last — Forney's  Review — The  Third  Regiment  Louisiana  In 
fantry  Honored— The  Sham  Battle — Reception  of  the  Third  Regiment — 
General  Forney  Introduces  them  to  his  Division — Speeches — Good  Cheer 
— The  Flag  of  the  Regiment— Robberies  in  Shreveport — Arrival  of  Yan 
kee  Commissioners — Aspect  of  Camp — The  Regiment  Protects  Shreveport 
from  Destruction,  May  17th,  1865 — The  Missourians — Indignation — Dis 
banding — Farewell  of  the  Veterans — Scenes  of  Destruction — The  Last  of 
the  Regiment — Darkness  and  Gloom,  ..*....  331 

CHAPTER  XLI. 

Scenes  from  Camp  Life  at  Camp  Boggs— Music — Preaching — The  Storm — 
"  Here's  Your  Honey  "  —  Our  Quarters  —  Our  Southern  Women  — Un 
marked  Graves — The  Personnel  of  the  Regiment  — How  They  Accept  the 
Situation,  ...  - 339 


Rolls  of  the  Companies, 351 

Appendix, 395 


A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 


CHAPTER   I. 

TRUTHFULNESS  is  the  gem  which  gives  to  History  its  greatest 
charm ;  the  golden  light  which  adorns  it  with  mellow  rays  for  all 
coming  time.  Hence  in  making  History  by  our  own  deeds,  or 
writing  them  for  present  and  future  ages,  we  should  adhere  strictly 
to  the  promulgation  of  facts  alone.  It  is  a  lamentable  circumstance 
that  deep-seated,  ineradicable  prejudices  have  been  ingrafted  into 
every  published  record  which  has  been  given  to  the  public  concern 
ing  the  late  struggle.  Men  must  be  governed  by  fixed  principles, 
must  adhere  to  cherished  thoughts  and  feelings,  and  hence  act,  speak 
and  write  in  conformity  with  these  controlling  influences.  Thus  the 
Northern  mind  thinks  of  the  war  as  a  gigantic  rebellion  to  destroy 
the  American  Government,  while  the  South  conceived  it  to  be  a 
struggle  for  the  preservation  of  constitutional  freedom  and  their 
peculiar  institutions.  No  one  at  the  present  time  can  properly  deter 
mine  the  truth.  Justice,  with  her  nicely-balanced  scales,  must  wait 
for  historians  of  the  next  century  to  properly  weigh  facts,  in  order 
to  discriminate  between  the  North  and  South,  and  give  to  the  world 
a  correct  record  of  events  connected  with  this  gigantic  internecine 
strife.  Fanaticism,  that  foul  demon  of  discord  and  strife,  first  reared 
its  hydra-head  among  the  mountains  and  hills  of  New  England. 
From  an  insignificant  birth,  it  grew  in  strength  and  power  until  its 
influence  extended  over  the  whole  North.  The  first  aim  and  object 
of  this  foul  spirit  was  the  eradication  of  slavery  on  this  continent, 
an  interference  with  the  peculiar  institutions  of  one  section  by  the 
powerful  arm  of  the  opposing  section.  In  opposition  to  fanaticism 
grew  up  an  equally  malignant  spirit  in  the  South.  As  years  passed 
by,  feelings  of  hatred  and  enmity  first  engendered,  grew  in  intensity 
and  bitterness  until  all  compromise  was  rejected  and  the  sword  was 
unsheathed  to  settle  the  differences  which  existed.  Of  the  opening 
acts  of  the  war  it  is  needless  to  write.  They  are  known  by  every 
man,  woman  and  child  in  the  land,  and  are  engraven  in  characters 


22  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

of  living  light  upon  millions  of  throbbing  hearts.  After  the  election 
of  Abraham  Lincoln  by  a  sectional  minority,  the  Southern  States, 
commencing  with  South  Carolina,  one  by  one  severed  the  chains 
•which  had  bound  them  in  loving  ties  to  the  General  Government. 
Banished  was  the  starry  flag  which  had  floated  so  proudly  over  a 
great  and  powerful  nation,  forgotten  were  the  wise  teachings  of  a 
Washington,  when  fanatical  hate,  marshaling  its  hosts,  was  con 
fronted  by  a  spirit  of  stern  and  uncompromising  resistance.  Human 
thought  fails  to  express,  in  its  conception  of  material  objects,  and 
their  concomitant  surroundings,  the  magnitude  of  this  struggle. 
Neither  can  human  mind  place  the  blame  where  it  justly  belongs, 
without  introducing  amid  its  conceptions  prejudices  which,  ex 
pressed,  would  destroy  its  reliability.  Hence  we  infinitely  prefer 
that  others  discuss  this  question  pro  and  con,  rather  than  make 
it  a  subject  of  conjecture  and  speculation  in  the  pages  of  this 
volume. 

In  December,  1860,  the  General  Assembly  of  Louisiana  met  in  ex 
traordinary  session  in  obedience  to  the  call  of  the  Governor,  Thomas 
O.  Moore.  After  a  short  session  acts  were  passed  for  the  organiza 
tion  of  the  militia,  in  view  of  the  threatening  aspect  of  affairs  be 
tween  the  General  Government  and  the  Southern  States,  and  also  for 
a  convention  of  representatives  from  the  people,  to  assemble  January 
23,  1861,  to  determine  the  future  course  and  policy  of  Louisiana. 
At  this  time  there  was  a  state  of  feverish  excitement  all  over  the 
land.  South  Carolina  had  already  taken  the  initiative,  and  severed 
her  connection  with  the  Federal  Union,  and  State  conventions  had 
been  called  in  Florida,  Alabama,  Mississippi,  Texas,  and  Georgia. 
Previous  to  the  assembling  of  the  Louisiana  Convention,  on  January 
12,  1861,  the  United  States  Arsenal  and  Barracks  at  Baton  Eouge 
were  taken  formal  possession  of  by  the  State  authorities,  being  sur 
rendered  to  Gov.  Moore  by  the  officer  then  in  command,  Maj.  Haskin, 
of  the  U.  S.  Army.  This  important  event  was  achieved  without 
bloodshed,  although  accomplished  amid  intense  excitement.  This 
victory,  so  important,  was  gained  through  the  instrumentality  of  a 
battalion  from  New  Orleans  under  command  of  J.  B.  Walton,  com 
posed  of  the  Crescent  City  Rifles,  Chasseurs-a-Pied,  Louisiana  Guards, 
Washington  Artillery,  Orleans  Cadets,  Sarsfield  Rifles,  and  Louisiana 
Grays,  with  a  Grosse  Tete  Company,  Delta  Rifles,  Pelican  Rifles, 
National  Guards,  and  Creole  Guards  of  Baton  Rouge.  By  this 
prompt  action  of  seizure,  an  immense  quantity  of  arms,  artillery, 
and  munitions  of  war  of  every  description,  fell  into  the  possession 
of  the  State.  On  the  23d  of  January,  1861,  the  Convention  as- 


THIRD    LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  28 

sembled,  and  after  four  days'  deliberation  passed  the  ordinance  of 
secession,  with  nearly  a  unanimous  vote.  As  elsewhere,  the  action 
of  this  body  was  received  with  the  wildest  enthusiasm,  and  the 
State  flag  everywhere  floated  in  the  breeze.  The  whole  State  and 
land  were  turned  from  peaceful  pursuits  into  preparations  for  the  ex 
pected  fierce,  bloody,  and  deadly  struggle. 

The  arms  captured  at  the  arsenal  were  rapidly  distributed  to  the 
volunteer  organizations,  and  forwarded  to  the  forts  and  troops  else 
where.  At  Pensacola,  Fla.,  and  Charleston,  S.  C.,  the  opposing  forces 
confronted  each  other,  both  parties  preparing  for  the  coming  strife, 
February  9th,  1861.  At  Montgomery,  Ala.,  was  formed  the  Pro 
visional  Government  of  the  Confederate  States,  by  South  Carolina, 
Florida,  Mississippi,  Alabama,  Georgia  and  Louisiana,  a  constellation 
around  which  clustered  in  radiant  beauty  nearly  all  the  remainder 
of  the  Southern  States.  Jefferson  Davis,  of  Mississippi,  was  chosen 
President,  and  Alexander  H.  Stephens,  of  Georgia,  Vice-President. 
After  the  organization  of  the  Confederate  Government,  scenes 
(familiar  now  as  household  words)  full  of  excitement  followed  each 
other  in  rapid  succession.  All  attempts  to  settle  the  sectional  diffi 
culties  and  differences  on  some  peaceable  basis  were  rejected  by  the 
Federal  Government,  until  they  at  last  culminated,  on  April  12th, 
1861,  into  an  open  rupture.  The  U.  S.  Government  then  attempted 
to  convey  reinforcements  and  supplies  into  Foil  Sumter,  off  Charles 
ton,  S.  C.  The  attempt  was  frustrated  by  the  batteries  under  General 
Beauregard  opening  fire  on  the  approaching  vessel,  and  preventing 
her  entrance.  A  fierce  conflict  took  place  between  Fort  Sumter 
and  the  Confederate  States  batteries.  Thus  the  gun  that  bellowed 
out  its  hoarse  thunder  across  the  waters  of  Charleston  harbor,  pro 
claimed  the  momentous  fact  that  war  had  actually  begun.  Peaceful 
arbitration  was  a  failure,  now  that  the  sword  must  determine  the 
issue. 

In  obedience  to  instructions  from  Governor  Moore,  the  Pelican 
Rifles*  of  Baton  Rouge  (organized  November  25th,  1859,  and  of 
which  the  author  was  a  member)  entered  upon  garrison  duty  in  the 
barracks,  having  already  offered  their  services  to  the  State.  At  this 

*  This  company  was  organized  during  the  excitement  occasioned  by  the  raid 
of  John  Brown  into  Virginia,  and  in  anticipation  of  a  general  insurrection 
throughout  the  Southern  States.  Their  banner  was  manufactured  out  of  rich 
blue  silk  and  the  most  costly  trimmings.  On  one  side  was  painted  the  seal  of 
the  State,  and  on  the  reverse  side  the  motto  "Southern  Rights  Inviolate," 
surrounded  with  a  golden  wreath,  thus  proclaiming  it  the  first  Southern  rights 
flag  unfurled  in  Louisiana. 


24  A  SOUTHERN  EECOED. 

time  nearly  every  steamer  going  down  the  Mississippi  River  was 
loaded  with  volunteer  companies  hastening  to  New  Orleans  prepara 
tory  to  being  organized  into  regiments  for  muster  into  the  Confeder 
ate  service.  Impatiently  already  organized  companies  waited  for 
the  call  which  would  permit  them  to  hasten  to  the  seat  of  war.  It 
came  at  last,  in  the  following  proclamation  of  the  Governor : 

"HEADQUARTERS  LOUISIANA  MILITIA,  ) 

Adjutant- GeneraVs  Office,  N.  0.,  April  21,  1861.  j" 
"  The  President  of  the  Confederate  States  having  made  a  requisi 
tion  upon  the  Governor  of  Louisiana  for  five  thousand  infantry  to 
serve  for  twelve  months,  unless  sooner  discharged,  (this  force  being  in 
addition  to  the  three  thousand  already  called  for,)  I,  Thomas  O. 
Moore,  Governor  of  the  State  of  Louisiana,  do  hereby  proclaim  that 
volunteers  will  be  received  in  accordance  with  the  requisition  of  the 
President  of  the  Confederate  States,  each  company  to  be  composed 
of  not  less  than  sixty-four  privates,  four  sergeants,  four  corporals, 
one  captain,  one  first  lieutenant  and  one  second  lieutenant.  Volun 
teers  will  be  received  by  companies,  battalions  or  regiments.  Those 
offering  will  address  Adjutant-General  M.  Grivot,  at  New  Orleans, 
stating  the  force  of  their  command,  will  remain  in  the  parish  in 
which  they  form,  perfect  themselves  in  drill,  etc.,  and  hold  them 
selves  in  readiness  at  a  moment's  notice,  subject  to  the  orders  of  the 
Governor.  The  Governor  appeals  to  the  patriotic  citizens  of  this 
State  to  respond  to  this  proclamation  for  the  protection  of  the  rights 
of  the  State.  By  order  of 

"  THOMAS  O.  MOORE, 
"  Governor  and  Commander-in- Chief . 
UM.  GRIVOT,  Adjutant  and  Inspector- General,  La." 

The  above  order  was  promptly  and  eagerly  responded  to,  and  the 
question  was  not  who  shall  go,  but  rather  who  will  remain  at  home. 
Creole  and  American,  Celt  and  Gaul,  old  and  young,  rich  and  poor, 
all  were  ready  for  the  fray.  Southern  blood  had  already  been  shed, 
and  Southern  hearts  grew  strong  in  defence  of  their  homes  and  fire 
sides,  which  sheltered  the  dear  ones.  Among  the  first  companies 
who  responded  to  the  proclamation  of  the  Governor  was  the  Pelican 
Rifles  of  Baton  Rouge.  Its  departure  was  marked  by  one  of  those 
indescribable  scenes  which  were  just  at  this  period  so  numerous  in 
the  land,  and  which  each  survivor  of  our  early  volunteers  remem 
bers  as  if  emblazoned  in  the  heavens  in  characters  of  living  light. 
What  one  among  the  thousands  who  then  went  forth  to  peril  life  and 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  25 

limbs  in  defence  of  cherished  principles,  does  not  remember  the  last 
farewell  of  loved  ones,  the  clasp  of  soft  arms  around  manly  forms, 
the  unspeakable  eloquence  of  tearful  eyes,  the  hopeless  despair  of 
whose  glance  followed  him  through  long  and  weary  campaigns,  and 
came  back  to  memory  amid  the  din,  uproar,  and  carnage  of  battle  ? 
Yet  there  was  no  flinching  in  those  loving  hearts,  no  appeals  to 
remain,  and  Omnipotence  alone  could  note  the  wild  agony  of  the 
loved  ones,  as,  with  warm  kisses  and  cheerful  words,  they  bade  sons, 
husbands,  brothers  and  fathers  go  forth  to  the  defence  of  their  own 
sunny  land.  Such  scenes  may  well  become  a  part  of  history,  for  they 
exhibit  the  deep  patriotism  which  actuates  the  human  heart  in  the 
hour  of  peril  to  the  land  we  love. 

On  the  broad  stream  of  the  turbid  Mississippi — away  from  homes, 
from  friends — parted,  "it  may  be  for  years,  it  may  be  forever;" 
mingling  with  like  brave  spirits  actuated  by  the  same  feelings  of 
patriotic  devotion  to  country  and  principle.  In  New  Orleans  at  last ; 
— the  great  throbbing  commercial  emporium  of  the  State  and  the 
South,  swelling  the  list  of  companies  already  present.  All  is  bustle 
and  activity.  Ladies  in  countless  numbers  throng  the  galleries,  and 
strong-hearted  men  crowd  the  banquets  to  greet  with  smile  and  cheer 
each  organization  as  it  marches  with  steady  tread  over  the  paved 
streets. 

The  spot  selected  as  a  place  of  encampment  for  the  rapidly  arriving 
volunteers  is  known  as  the  Metairie  Course,  then  called  Camp  Walker. 
Some  of  the  companies  which  were  to  form  part  of  the  Third 
Regiment  Louisiana  Infantry  had  already  arrived,  and  others  on 
the  way  when  we  reached  the  camp.  What  a  scene  for  one  unaccus 
tomed  to  witness  a  regular  encampment !  In  the  early  part  of  May 
upward  of  8,000  troops  were  present,  and  still  rapidly  arriving.  It 
was  a  somewhat  different  affair  from  holiday  soldiering  at  home. 
The  enforcement  of  strict  and  rigid  military  discipline,  the  daily 
compulsory  drill,  guard  mounting  and  duty,  caused  many  a  high- 
toned  and  independent  spirit  to  rebel  against  restrictions  upon  per 
sonal  liberty.  Yet  the  duties  imposed  were  bravely,  and  at  last 
cheerfully,  discharged.  It  was  a  spectacle  both  strange  and  new  to 
see  young  men,  reared  amid  the  luxuries  and  comforts  at  home,  whose 
ffiir  faces  and  white  hands  had  never  been  soiled  by  contact  with 
work,  doing  soldier  duty,  bending  over  the  camp-fire,  preparing 
meals  or  boiling  coffee,  tears  streaming  from  their  eyes,  caused  by  vil 
lainous  smoke  from  these  same  camp-fires,  carrying  wood  and  water, 
and  when  the  clay's  duties  were  completed,  lying  down  upon  a  board 
or  the  bare  ground  with  knapsack  or  billet  of  wood  for  a  pillow, 
2 


26  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

and  a  single  blanket  for  a  covering.  Without  doubt  visions  of  soft 
beds  and  downy  pillows  haunted  the  young  soldier's  first  dreams  in 
camp.  The  companies  present  were  immediately  organized  into 
regiments,  preparatory  to  being  mustered  into  the  Confederate  States 
service  and  proceeding  to  the  seat  of  war. 


CHAPTER  II. 

IN  May,  1861,  the  Third  Regiment,  Louisiana  Infantry,  was  organ 
ized  by  the  selection  of  the  following  officers :  Colonel,  Louis 
Hebert;  Lieutenant-Colonel,  S.  M.  Hyams,  Sr.,  of  Natchitoches ; 
Major,  W.  F.  Tunnard,  of  Baton  Eouge. 

FIELD  AND  STAFF.— Quartermaster,  Theodore  Johnson,  Iberville ; 

Commissary,  T.  L.  Maxwell ;  Surgeon,  Bridelove ;  Chaplain, 

Rev.  P.  F.  Dicharry ;  Adjutant-Lieutenant,  J.  Harvey  Brighani. 

The  regiment  was  composed  of  the  following  companies : 

Company  "A,"  Iberville  Greys :  Captain,  Charles  A.  Brusle ;  First 
Lieutenant,  T.  C.  Brown  ;  Second  Lieutenant,  T.  G.  Stringer ;  Second 
Lieutenant,  Jr.,  T.  R.  Verbois ;  Non-Commissioned  Officers  and  Pri 
vates,  87  strong. 

Company  "  B,"  Morehouse  Guards :  Captain,  R.  M.  Hinson ;  First 
Lieutenant,  W.  S.  Hall ;  Second  Lieutenant,  D.  C.  Morgan ;  Second 
Lieutenant,  Jr.,  J.  H.  Brighani  ;  Non-Commissioned  Officers  and 
Privates,  124  strong. 

Company  u  C,"  Winn  Rifles :  Captain,  David  Pierson ;  First 
Lieutenant,  Asa  Emanuel ;  Second  Lieutenant,  William  Strother ; 
Second  Lieutenant,  Jr.,  W.  C.  Lurry ;  Non-Commissioned  Officers 
and  Privates,  89  strong. 

Company  "  D,"  Pelican  Rangers,  No.  2 :  Captain,  J.  D.  Blair ; 
First  Lieutenant,  S.  D.  Russell ;  Second  Lieutenant,  "VV.  E.  Russell ; 
Second  Lieutenant,  Jr.,  S.  M.  Hyams,  Jr. ;  Non-Commissioned  Officers 
and  Privates,  77  strong. 

Company  "  E,"  Morehouse  Fencibles  :  Captain,  J.  F.  Harris ;  First 
Leiutenant,  P.  C.  Brigham  ;  Second  Lieutenant,  P.  Brooks  ;  Second 
Lieutenant,  Jr.,  W.  D.  Brigham;  Non-Commissioned  Officers  and 
Privates,  78  strong. 

Company  "  F,"  Shreveport  Rangers  :  Captain,  J.  B.  Gilmore ;  First 
Lieutenant,  W.  A.  Lacey ;  Second  Lieutenant,  O.  J.  Wells  ;  Second 


28  A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

Lieutenant,  Jr.,  A.  Jewell ;  Non-Commissioned  Officers  and  Privates, 
115  strong. 

Company  "  G,"  Pelican  Rangers,  No.  1 :  Captain,  "W.  W.  Brezeale ; 
First  Lieutenant,  "W.  O.  Brezeale ;  Second  Lieutenant,  G.  W.  Hal- 
loway ;  Second  Lieutenant,  Jr.,  L.  Caspari  ;  Kon-Cornmissioned  Offi 
cers  and  Privates,  157  strong. 

Company  "  H,"  Monticello  Rifles  :  Captain,  J.  S.  Richards  ;  First 
Lieutenant,  W.  D.  Hardiman  ;  Second  Lieutenant,  W.  H.  Corbin ; 
Second  Lieutenant,  Jr.,  Cy.  A.  Hedrick  ;  Non-Commission ed  Officers 
and  Privates,  107  strong. 

Company  u  I,"  Caldwell  Guards  :  Captain,  W.  S.  Gunnell ;  First 
Lieutenant,  J.  C.  Evans  ;  Second  Lieutenant,  L.  B.  Fluitt ;  Second 
Lieutenant,  Jr.,  T.  J.  Humble ;  Non-Commissioned  Officers  and 
Privates,  116  strong. 

Company  "  K,"  Pelican  Rifles  :  Captain,  John  P.  Viglini  ;  First 
Lieutenant,  John  B.  Irvin ;  Second  Lieutenant,  F.  D.  Tunnard ; 
Second  Lieutenant,  Jr.,  F.  R.  Brunot ;  Non-Commissioned  Officers 
and  Privates,  87  strong. 

Total  strength  of  the  Regiment :  Field  Officers,  8 ;  Line  Officers, 
40 ;  Non-Commissioned  Officers,  92 ;  Privates,  945.  Grand  to 
tal,  1085. 

The  various  companies  were  mustered  into  the  State  service  in 
April  and  May,  and  the  Regiment  was  formally  received  into  the 
Confederate  service  on  the  17th  day  of  May,  1861. 

This  body  of  stalwart  men  were  from  the  country  parishes,  repre 
sented  as  follows  :  Company  "A,"  Plaquemine  ;  Companies  "  B"  and 
"E,"  Morehouse;  Company  "C,"  Winn;  Companies  "  D"  and 
"  G,"  Natchitoches  ;  Company  "  F,"  Cadclo  ;  Company  "  H,"  Car 
roll;  Company  "I,"  Caldwell;  and  Company  "  K,"  East  Baton 
Rouge. 

This  Regiment,  numbering  1085  men,  were  the  bone  and  sinew, 
some  of  the  choicest  spirits  from  the  parishes  which  they  represented, 
mostly  young  men,  with  the  glow  of  health  upon  their  features  and 
the  fire  of  a  patriotic  devotion  and  enthusiasm  sparkling  in  their 
clear  eyes ;  men  who  went  forth  actuated  by  a  firm  conviction  of 
right,  earnest  adherents  to  principle ;  whose  brave  spirits  met  the 
issue  squarely,  and  would  not  quail  or  flinch  when  the  day  of  danger 
and  trial  arrived.  Strange  as  it  may  seem,  this  organization  of 
robust  young  men  were  commanded  by  field  officers  whose  heads 
were  streaked  with  gray — men  of  age  and  experience. 

General  Louis  Hebert  was  born  in  the  parish  of  Iberville,  La., 
March  13, 1820.  He  graduated  at  Jefferson  College,  St.  James'  Parish, 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  29 

La.,  December  10,  1840  ;  entered  West  Point  as  a  cadet  in  June, 
1841,  and  graduated  third  in  his  class,  in  all  his  studies,  on  June  19, 
1845.  He  was  appointed  Brevet  Second  Lieutenant  in  the  Corps  of 
Engineers,  U.  S.  A.,  and  served  as  such  until  February,  1846,  when, 
on  account  of  sickness  in  his  family,  he  resigned  from  the  army  to 
superintend  his  father's  affairs. 

In  1853  General  Hebert  was  elected  State  Senator,  from  the  sena 
torial  district  then  composed  of  the  parishes  of  West  Baton  Rouge 
and  Iberville,  for  a  term  of  four  years,  but  only  served  in  the  ses 
sion  of  1854  and  1855.  During  the  session  of  1855  he  was  appointed 
and  confirmed  State  Engineer,  which  office  he  accepted,  and  resigned 
his  Senatorship.  He  continued  State  Engineer  (being  repeatedly 
re-appointed)  until  the  office  was  abolished  in  1859.  In  1860  he 
was  elected  a  member  of  the  Board  of  Public  Works  of  the  State  ; 
but  the  Board  was  abolished  by  the  Legislature  in  1861.  From 
1856  to  1861,  General  Hebert  held  the  commission  of  Colonel  of 
Militia  of  East  Baton  Rouge.  Such  is  the  brief  outline  of  the  his 
tory  of  the  first  colonel  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry.  After  the 
fall  of  Vicksburg,  General  Hebert  was  stationed  at  Wilmington, 
N.  C.,  where  he  constructed  fortifications  which  exhibited  his  splen 
did  talents  for  engineering,  an  occupation  in  which  he  was  skilled, 
and  for  which  he  was  pre-eminently  fitted  by  education. 

As  an  officer,  he  was  a  strict  disciplinarian,  punctilious  in  enforc 
ing  a  rigid  adherence  to  all  orders ;  as  a  man,  he  was  genial  and 
kind  in  manner  and  conversation.  The  old  members  of  the  Third 
Regiment  may  remember  now  how  exacting  the  Colonel  was  in 
demanding  a  ready  and  close  adherance  to  his  orders,  and  how  .they 
writhed  under  the  rule  of  his  iron  hand.  Yet,  after  ail,  the  Colonel 
became  a  great  favorite  with  the  Regiment,  which  manifested  its 
feelings  on  every  favorable  opportunity.  As  the  leader  of  a  regi 
ment  or  the  commander  of  a  brigade,  General  Hebert  was  cool,  and 
exhibited  his  military  training  and  education. 

Lieutenant-Colonel  S.  M.  Hyams,  of  Natchitoches,  was  born  in 
Charleston,  S.  C.,  September  1C,  1813,  and  was  a  student  at  Charles 
ton  College  under  President  Adams.  He  came  to  New  Orleans  in 
1830,  and  was  a  student  at  Centenary  College,  Jackson,  up  to  1834. 
Went  to  Natchitoches  in  1834  and  returned  to  New  Orleans  the  suc 
ceeding  year.  He  held  the  office  successively  as  U.  S.  Deputy 
Surveyor  and  Clerk  of  the  District  Court,  Natchitoches.  In  1846, 
on  the  call  of  Governor  Johnson  for  six  mouths'  men  to  serve  in 
Mexico,  he  raised  a  company,  and  was  Captain  in  the  Fifth  Regi 
ment,  Louisiana  Volunteers,  but  was  mustered  out  the  same  year 


30  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

T-* 

with  his  regiment  and  returned  home.  He  was  then  elected  Sheriff, 
which  office  he  filled  for  six  years,  and  was  afterward  U.  S.  Marshal, 
Western  District  of  Louisiana,  and  Register  of  the  Land  Office. 

He  brought  to  New  Orleans  a  company  of  fine  men,  showing  con 
clusively  the  confidence  reposed  in  his  ability  as  a  tactician  and 
soldier.  His  military  experience  needed  no  better  recommendation 
than  the  fact  that  he  was  chosen  as  captain  of  Company  "  Gr." 

As  a  man,  Colonel  Hyanis  is  hospitable  to  a  fault.  Both  lawyer 
and  planter,  his  name  is  known  far  and  near  for  his  generosity  and 
affability.  Often  have  we  known  the  Colonel  to  forget  his  position 
and  rank  in  his  feelings  as  a  man.  His  men  were  always  pleasantly 
welcomed  to  his  quarters.  Though  almost  a  confirmed  cripple  from 
the  rheumatism,  the  Colonel  exhibited  his  devotion  to  his  country 
by  thus  braving  the  hardships  of  a  soldier's  life  while  subject  to  an 
almost  incurable  disease.  We  never  think  of  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Hyams  but  what  the  heart  grows  warm  with  eloquent  feelings. 

Major  W.  F.  Tunnard,  a  native  of  New  York,  born  in  N.  Y.  City 
on  June  17,  1809,  came  to  the  South  many  years  ago,  and  was  iden 
tified  with  it  in  heart,  feeling  and  principle.  A  mechanic  by  trade, 
he  built  up  a  fortune  and  reputation  by  close  application  to  business, 
gaining  an  enviable  reputation  for  fairness  and  truthfulness  in  all 
his  business  relations.  Of  untiring  energy,  activity  and  persever 
ance,  firm  and  resolute  in  his  views  and  plans,  unbending  in  his 
prejudices  and  determination,  of  iron  nerve  and  great  activity,  he 
linked  his  fortunes  to  the  young  Confederacy,  and  went  forth  to 
battle  in  defence  of  his  home  and  the  land  of  his  choice.  He  gath 
ered  about  him  the  flower  of  Baton  Rouge,  the  choice  spirits  of 
the  city,  mostly  young  men  just  entering  the  threshold  of  manhood. 
Devotedly  attached  to  military  pursuits,  with  years  of  experience  as 
a  tactician,  he  was  eminently  fitted  to  command.  His  voice  was 
trumpet-toned,  clear  and  distinct.  As  a  soldier  and  commander, 
Major  Tunnard  was  beloved  by  the  whole  Regiment,  among  the 
survivors  of  which  are  now  some  of  his  warmest  friends.  He  was 
a  strict  disciplinarian,  but  when  released  from  his  position  as  com 
mander,  mingled  freely  with  the  men,  often  joining  in  their  sports 
and  games.  Like  Colonel  Hyams,  he  left  family  and  business  be 
hind  him,  and,  with  his  sons,  joined  the  early  volunteers.  Colonel 
Hyams  had  three  sons  in  the  Regiment  and  Major  Tunnard  two. 

Under  men  of  years  and  experience  such  as  these,  was  the  Third 
Regiment  organized  for  active  service. 

On  the  7th  of  May  there  was  a  grand  review  of  all  the  troops  in 
Camp  Walker  by  Governor  Moore  and  staff.  The  affair  was  grand 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  31 

and  imposing  at  this  early  date,  and  attracted  an  immense  concourse 
of  people,  the  majority  of  whom  were  our  fair  Southern  ladies, 
always  present  with  their  bright  smiles  and  cheering  words  to 
encourage  the  young  volunteers.  Among  the  participants  in  this 
were  the  following  companies,  afterward  belonging  to  the  Third 
Kegiment :  A,  C,  D,  F,  G,  I  and  K.  The  men  at  this  period  were 
becoming  initiated  into  the  mysteries  of  camp  life,  and  accustomed 
to  its  daily  routine,  which  were  by  no  means  light.  At  early  dawn 
the  reveille  roused  them  from  slumber.  Roll  being  called,  the  com 
panies  were  dismissed  to  put  their  quarters  in  order.  Breakfast  at  6 
o'clock  A.  M.  In  the  mean  time  ten  men  from  each  company  were 
detailed  to  serve  in  the  main  guard,  to  enforce  discipline  and  guard 
the  camp.  A  police  guard  was  also  appointed,  who  cleaned  up  all 
dirt  and  filth  about  the  tents,  brought  water  for  the  company,  wood 
for  the  cooks,  and,  in  fact,  kept  everything  in  order  and  cleanliness. 
During  the  afternoon,  squad  drills.  Who  does  not  remember  those 
squad  drills,  and  the  double-quick  around  the  race-track  ?  The  boys 
became  equal  to  racers.  Living  on  a  race-course  made  the  disease 
for  running  contagious.  At  sundown,  company  muster  for  roll-call 
and  supper.  Tattoo  at  9  o'clock  p.  M.,  when  the  men  retired  to 
their  respective  tents ;  fifteen  minutes  later,  three  taps  of  the  drum 
compelled  every  light  to  be  extinguished,  and  the  camp  was  in  dark 
ness  and  quietude.  These  duties  were  conducted  with  regularity 
and  precision,  and  performed  with  a  promptitude  and  cheerfulness 
surprising  in  men  who  had  never  known  restraint,  and  were  fresh  from 
the  luxuries  and  pleasures  of  home.  Everything  necessary  for  the 
comfort  and  convenience  of  the  troops  was  furnished,  and  laugh, 
jest  and  song  attested  the  general  satisfaction  and  good  feeling  of 
the  men. 

On  the  17th  of  May,  1861,  the  Third  Regiment  was  mustered  into 
the  Confederate  service  by  Lieutenant  PfifFer,  and  shortly  afterward 
receiving  marching  orders,  prepared  to  leave  for  a  field  of  active 
service.  All  was  bustle  and  confusion,  and  the  men  were  in  high 
spirits,  full  of  enthusiasm  and  joviality  at  the  prospect  of  the  change. 
To  them  anything  seemed  preferable  to  a  longer  stay  in  the  low, 
marshy  grounds  of  Camp  "Walker,  with  its  myriads  of  mosquitoes 
and  other  inconveniences.  At  4  P.  M.,  May  20th,  the  regiment 
formed  and  took  up  the  line  of  march  for  the  river.  There  is  some 
thing  solemn  yet  soul-stirring  in  the  solid  tramp  of  a  large  body  of 
armed  men,  as  they  depart  for  some  scene  of  deadly  strife,  with 
ensigns  fluttering  in  the  breeze,  and  the  strains  of  martial  music  or 
the  roll  of  the  stirring  drum.  From  Camp  Walker  the  march  of  the 


32  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

regiment  was  one  grand  ovation,  the  balconies  of  the  houses,  ban 
quets  and  streets  being  crowded  with  countless  thousands  of  men, 
women  and  children,  bidding  the  brave  boys  farewell.  Many  knew 
that  it  was  a  last  farewell  to  the  enthusiastic  and  noble  soldiers  of 
this  command,  and  they  duly  appreciated  the  heartfelt  expressions 
of  sympathy  showered  upon  them,  and  the  emotion  manifested  upon 
many  fair  and  lovely  faces.  As  the  regiment  passed  down  Canal 
Street,  a  gentleman  remarked :  "  There  goes  a  body  of  men  who 
will  make  their  mark  on  the  battle-field."  Let  history  prove  the 
correctness  of  this  spontaneous  sentiment.  On  the  arrival  of  the 
regiment  at  the  river,  they  were  marched  on  board  the  steamers 
Arkansas,  Arkansaw,  Indian  No.  2  and  Countess,  their  destination 
being  announced  as  Fort  Smith,  to  aid  in  checking  a  threatened 
invasion  of  our  Western  border.  This  announcement  was  a  sad  blow 
to  the  expectations  of  a  large  mass  of  the  regiment,  as  they  antici 
pated  being  ordered  to  Virginia.  "  Man  proposes,  but  God  disposes." 
At  9  P.  M.  the  regiment  cheered  its  last  adieu  to  New  Orleans.  The 
next  evening  the  boats  arrived  at  Baton  Rouge.  It  having  been 
telegraphed  from  New  Orleans  that  the  regiment  would  reach  Baton 
Rouge  early  on  the  21st,  the  population  turned  out  en  masse  to  give 
them  a  reception  and  take  a  last  farewell  of  Company  K,  Pelican 
Rifles.  The  Arkansas  having  on  board  the  Monticello  and  Pelican 
Rifles  and  Iberville  Greys  alone,  touched  at  the  landing,  and  a  half 
hour  was  given  the  members  of  Company  K  to  bid  a  final  adieu  to 
friends  and  relatives.  The  landing  was  packed  to  its  utmost  capa 
city  with  citizens  of  both  sexes ;  the  scene  that  ensued  beggars  all 
description.  Language  grows  weak  and  impotent  in  the  attempt  to 
portray  these  early  parting  scenes  of  the  war.  The  warm  embrace, 
the  streaming  eyes,  agonizing  expressions  of  sorrow,  loving  words 
of  cheer  and  advice,  the  whispered  prayers  for  the  loved  ones'  safety, 
the  tokens  of  love  and  remembrance  are  memories  as  ineffaceable  as  the 
footprints  of  time.  Regardless  in  the  abandonment  of  the  excite 
ment  and  deep  feelings  of  the  moment,  the  members  of  the  different 
companies  were  seized  by  the  ladies,  kissed  and  embraced  indiscrim 
inately.  Those  soft,  encircling  arms,  and  the  warm  pressure  of  loving 
lips,  lingers  with  the  soldier  to  his  dying  hour,  and  often  comes  back 
with  irrepressible  influence  to  the  hearts  of  those  who  survive  the 
dread  carnage  of  battling  hosts.  Many  a  sly  joke  and  rich  story  did 
the  members  of  Companies  A  and  H  have  to  relate  concerning  their 
reception  at  Baton  Rouge.  Fair  countrywomen !  'twas  but  the 
expression  of  your  woman's  sympathy,  deep  affection  and  abiding 
hope,  in  the  cause  which  your  loved  ones  had  espoused.  Tuesday, 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  33 

May  21st,  will  long  be  remembered  by  those  who  participated  in 
those  parting  scenes.  Many  of  those  warmly  throbbing  hearts  now 
mouldering  lie  'neath  the  green  sod  of  distant  States  in  the  soldier's 
humble  grave,  but  the  survivors  cherish  the  memory  of  those  by-gone 
scenes  with  deep  reverence  and  holy  affection.  At  the  expiration  of 
the  given  time  the  men  promptly  returned  to  the  boat  and  cheered 
their  adieu.  As  the  steamers  passed  up  the  river,  an  innumerable 
number  and  variety  of  fire-works  were  discharged,  presenting  a 
beautiful  and  exciting  spectacle,  the  farewell  offering  of  a  large  num 
ber  of  patriotic  ladies  who  had  collected  for  this  purpose.  Scenes 
similar  to  this  occurred  at  Plaquemine  Lake.  Providence,  where- 
ever  the  regiment  had  friends  and  relatives,  while  the  river  banks  at 
every  plantation,  hamlet,  city  and  village  poured  forth  their  inhabi 
tants  to  wave  an  adieu  to  the  men.  Such  enthusiasm,  unanimity  of 
sentiment  and  feeling,  was  never  before  known  and  exhibited.  On 
the  23d  the  boats  landed  opposite  Vicksburg  to  await  the  arrival  of 
Colonel  Hebert,  who  had  been  detained  in  New  Orleans.  The  next 
day  left  this  city  and  proceeded  up  the  river.  Again  a  halt  was 
made  at  Napoleon,  in  expectation  of  the  arrival  of  the  Colonel.  Up 
to  this  period  little  had  occurred  to  mar  the  hilarious  spirits  and 
reckless  joviality  of  the  men.  Several  men  had  died  on  the  trip, 
the  joint  effects  of  a  change  of  diet  and  manner  of  living.  Here 
occurred  the  first  funeral  of  the  regiment,  being  the  burial  of  one  of 
the  members  of  Company  F,  private  Thomas  D.  Smith.  As  the  sad 
and  silent  procession  followed  a  comrade  in  arms  to  his  final  resting- 
place,  gloomy  thoughts  arose  in  many  a  manly  bosom.  How  mourn 
ful  thus  to  die  among  rough  but  sympathizing  comrades,  with  no 
soft  hand  to  wipe  the  death-damp  from  the  clammy  brow,  no  loved 
voice  to  whisper  words  of  hope  and  consolation  to  the  departing 
spirit !  Yet  such  was  "  the  beginning  of  the  end  "  to  many  a  sorrow 
ful  scene  through  which  the  soldier  is  destined  to  pass.  Now  scenes 
of  suffering  and  death  have  not  blunted  the  feelings  or  familiarized 
the  inind  with  human  agony,  and  the  heart  must  needs  go  out  in 
tender  sympathy  toward  the  far-distant  relatives  of  the  buried 
volunteer. 

"  WAS   IT    THE     SEKGEANT   OR   CAPTAIN  ?" 

When  the  regiment  left  New  Orleans,  on  board  the  steamer 
Countess  were  Companies  F,  G  and  D,  commanded  by  Lieutenant 
Colonel  S.  M.  Hyams,  Lieutenant  A.  W,  Jewell,  appointed  Adjutant, 
and  Sergeant  Kinney,  Sergeant-Major  of  the  detachment.  "This 
was  our  first  starting  out  in  search  of  war,"  says  the  narrator,  "  and 
2* 


34  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

to  illustrate  how  much  we  knew  of  military  matters,  I  will  relate  the 
following  circumstance.  The  boat  on  which  we  were,  the  Countess, 
as  stated,  had  on  board  three  companies.  We  had  our  regular  guard, 
officer  of  the  day,  officer  of  the  guard,  and  guard  mounting  every 
morning.  One  evening,  not  long  after  leaving  New  Orleans,  Captain 
Gilmore  (afterward  Colonel)  made  the  following  remarks  to  his 
Orderly  Sergeant : 

"  Sergeant,  you  have  put  all  the  company  on  guard  now,  and  I 
think  it  is  about  time  you  were  going  on  guard  yourself." 

"  Very  well,  Sir,"  replied  the  Orderly,  who  went  and  seized  a  gun, 
relieved  the  man  on  duty,  and  stood  guard  there  all  night,  no  one 
coming  to  relieve  him.  In  the  morning  the  Lieutenant  of  the  Guard 
asked  the  Sergeant  if  he  was  Orderly  of  Company  F  ?  The  Sergeant 
replied,  "  Yes,  Sir." 

"  How  comes  it,  then,"  inquired  the  Lieut..  "  that  you  are  on  guard  ?" 

"  Why,"  replied  the  Sergeant,  "  the  Captain  ordered  me  to  stand 
guard." 

"  But  the  Captain  has  no  right  to  order  you  on  guard,"  and  with 
this  remark  the  Lieutenant  turned  on  his  heel  and  left,  laughing 
heartily.  The  Orderly  goes  up  stairs,  went  into  the  cabin,  rushes  up 
to  his  Captain,  who  was  reading  a  paper,  and  very  quietly  remarked : 
"  Captain,  you  have  no  right  to  put  me  on  guard." 

"  I  have,  Sir,"  said  the  Captain,  jumping  up  from  his  chair,  u  and 
I  wish  you  to  distinctly  understand  that  I  am  Captain  of  this  com 
pany,  and  when  I  order  a  man  to  go  on  guard  or  do  anything  else, 
he  shall  do  it." 

"  I'll  go  and  see  Colonel  Hyams,  then,"  replied  the  Sergeant. 

"  Yery  well,  Sir,"  spoke  the  Captain,  and  sat  down. 

The  Sergeant  went  to  Colonel  H.,  who  was  reading  in  the  ladies' 
cabin,  and  asked  him  if  the  Captain  could  put  him  (the  Sergeant) 
on  guard. 

"  No,  Sir,"  replied  the  Colonel,  u  you  are  the  man  to  make  the 
guard  detail  in  your  company." 

This  information  tickled  the  Sergeant,  who  straightway  went  to 
his  Captain  and  said  : 

"  Captain,  I  am  the  man  who  puts  every  man  on  guard  in  the 
company,  and  I'll  put  you  on  next." 

The  Captain  dropped  his  paper,  jumped  up  and  went  to  the 
Colonel.  What  the  conversation  was  between  them  I  have  not  the 
means  of  knowing,  as  the  Captain  would  never  speak  on  that  subject. 
Anyway,  the  Captain  and  the  Sergeant  never  ordered  each  other  on 
guard  afterward. 


CHAPTER    III. 

LITTLE     ROCK. 

ON  the  27th  of  May  the  regiment  reached  Little  Hock,  Ark.  The 
journey  toward  Fort  Smith  was  brought  to  a  sudden  termination 
by  a  request  from  the  authorities  that  the  regiment  should  quarter 
here,  as  rumors  were  prevalent  that  Jim  Lane,  of  Kansas  notoriety, 
was  about  to  assail  this  post.  The  next  day  the  command  was  dis 
embarked,  under  the  leadership  of  Col.  Hyams,  and  marched  to  the 
former  U.  S.  Arsenal  grounds,  already  occupied  by  a  large  body  of 
State  troops,  composed  of  cavalry  and  artillery,  and  a  large  force  of 
militia,  armed  with  the  formidable  long-barreled  rifle,  which  ren 
dered  the  backwoodsmen  of  Kentucky  so  famed  in  the  first  revolu 
tionary  struggle.  The  same  spirit  which  throbbed  and  pulsated  in 
every  Southern  heart  animated  the  volunteers  of  Arkansas,  who 
hastened  to  the  common  defence,  armed  and  equipped  with  every 
conceivable  weapon.  The  camp  here  was  very  comfortable.  The 
grounds  beautifully  laid  out,  and  shaded  by  large  and  handsome 
oaks.  The  Arsenal  buildings  at  Little  Rock  are  fine  and  of  durable 
construction.  Here  a  number  of  the  regiment  were  detailed  to  con 
struct  cartridges  for  the  command,  which  was  soon  amply  supplied 
and  prepared  to  meet  the  foe.  While  camped  here  they  participated 
in  one  of  those  thrilling  and  affecting  scenes  which  were  then  so 
frequent,  but  yet  always  full  of  deep  interest,  being  the  occasion  of 
a  flag  presentation  to  a  company  of  Churchill's  cavalry  regiment,  by 
one  of  Little  Rock's  fairest  daughters,  Miss  Faulkner.  TJie  address 
of  the  lady  orator  was  one  of  peculiar  force  and  unsurpassed  elo 
quence.  Her  clear,  ringing  voice  was  heard  by  all,  and  her  manner 
and  words  sent  a  thrill  of  enthusiasm  to  every  manly  bosom,  attested 
by  frequent,  loud  and  prolonged  bursts  of  applause.  As  the  regi 
ment  marched  from  the  grounds  each  company,  in  passing  the  splen 
did  banner,  greeted  it  with  hearty  cheers,  which  were  lustily  returned 
by  the  cavalry  troop,  in  loud  huzzas  for  the  Louisiana  regiment. 

The  ladies  of  Little  Rock  daily  visited  the  encampment,  and 


36  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

seemed  to  be  particularly  fond  of  certain  members  of  the  Regiment. 
Unsurpassed  for  beauty  of  person,  refinement,  and  elegance  of  man 
ners,  it  was  not  surprising  that  they  became  the  objects  of  devoted 
admiration.  Could  the  green  turf  or  the  rustling  trees  o'erhead 
have  spoken,  many  would  be  the  tales  they  would  unfold  of  the  soft 
pressure  of  loving  hands,  and  whispered  words  of  affectionate  de 
votion.  Alas !  for  the  forgotten  charms  of  those  fair  ones,  so  recently 
left  in  sorrow  and  tears  1 


CHAPTER    IV. 

CAMP  POTEAU. 

ON  the  5th  of  June  the  Regiment  embarked  for  Fort  Smith.  The 
river  having  risen  suddenly,  rendered  unnecessary  a  march  to  Fort 
Smith,  much  to  the  relief  of  the  men.  They  reached  Fort  Smith  on 
the  7th,  and  became  a  portion  of  the  Western  army  under  the  com 
mand  of  Gen.  Ben  McCulloch,  the  famed  Texan  Ranger.  The  camp 
selected  was  an  open  field,  one  and  a  half  miles  south  of  Fort  Smith, 
near  a  stream  called  Poteau,  on  the  neutral  ground  that  separates 
Arkansas  from  the  Indian  Territory.  The  Poteau  is  a  deep,  sluggish 
stream,  with  rocky  banks,  and  empties  into  the  Arkansas  River  above 
Fort  Smith.  This  stream  afforded  a  fine  bathing-place  for  the  men, 
and  its  precipitous  rocky  banks,  crowned  with  huge  trees,  furnished 
abundant  shade  for  those  disposed  to  lounge  beneath  their  protect 
ing  shelter.  The  men  suffered  severely  from  the  heat,  day  succeed 
ing  day,  clear  and  sultry,  with  scarcely  a  breath  of  air  to  stir  the 
leaves  of  the  trees  or  cool  the  suffocating  atmosphere.  Early  in  June, 
General  McCulloch  returned  to  Fort  Smith  from  the  Indian  Nation, 
where  he  had  been,  endeavoring  to  form  an  alliance  with  the  differ 
ent  tribes  and  obtain  their  assistance  in  achieving  Southern  inde 
pendence.  His  mission  had  proved  unsuccessful,  and  another  con 
ference  had  been  appointed  to  take  place  on  the  20th  of  June.  The 
success  of  his  mission  was  anxiously  watched,  as  the  tribes  on  the 
Western  frontier  would  prove  powerful  and  desirable  auxiliaries  at 
this  period.  General  McCulloch  at  this  time  did  not  visit  the  Regi 
ment,  although  the  men  were  eager  to  see  their  future  leader,  already 
so  famed  as  a  Ranger  on  the  Texan  frontier.  Rumors  were  prevalent 
that  Lane,  of  Kansas  notoriety,  was  about  advancing  on  Fort  Smith. 
His  approach  was  anticipated,  and  his  coming  would  have  received 
a  warm  welcome.  The  force  encamped  near  Fort  Smith  at  this  period 
consisted  of  two  infantry  and  one  cavalry  regiment,  and  a  company 
of  artillery. 

Col.  Hebert  reached  the  Regiment  in  company  with  Surgeon  Breed- 
love  on  the  16th.  He  inaugurated  immediately  a  strict  observance 


38  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

of  military  rules  and  regulations.  The  regiment  imagined  Col. 
Hyams  had  been  rigid  enough  as  a  commander,  but  he  was  surpassed 
by  Col.  Hebert.  Drills  and  parades,  a  close  adherence  to  issued  or 
ders  were  required  and  enforced,  until  the  regiment  b.ecaine  equal 
to  regulars  in  the  discharge  of  their  various  duties.  Of  course  num 
bers  complained  at  the  rigid  discipline  to  which  they  were  subjected, 
having  scarcely  gained  the  important  knowledge  as  yet  that  the  first 
duty  of  a  soldier  was  obedience  to  orders,  and  next,  that  troops  were 
the  most  efficient  when  most  thoroughly  trained.  On  the  19th  of 
June  the  first  Regimental  Court-Martial  was  convened,  consisting  of 
Col.  Louis  Hebert,  President ;  Maj.  Tunnard,  Lieuts.  Evans,  Lacy, 
Russell,  and  Hyams ;  Capt.  C.  A.  Brusle,  Judge  Advocate ;  Lieut.  F. 
Brunot,  Recorder.  The  measles  became  epidemic  in  camp,  and  sev 
eral  of  the  regiment  died  and  found  soldiers'  graves.  All  through 
the  hot  and  sultry  days  of  June  did  the  regiment  remain  at  Camp 
Poteau,  watching  anxiously  the  incipient  stages  of  the  war  breaking 
out  in  various  portions  of  the  land,  destined  at  last  to  sweep  with 
simoom  blast  over  the  whole  country.  During  this  time  Missouri 
awakened  from  her  lethargy  like  a  giant  aroused  from  deep  slumber, 
and  her  hardy  sons  began  to  prepare  for  the  coming  struggle.  Bound 
in  the  strong  chains  of  military  power  with  foes  within  and  without 
her  borders,  yet  did  she  not  quail,  cower  or  shrink  from  the  issue. 
With  the  uprising  of  the  Missourians,  the  troops  of  the  Confederate 
States  began  hastening  to  the  rescue.  The  Third  Regiment  received 
marching  orders  on  the  28th  of  June,  and  began  active  preparations 
for  their  first  march.  Generals  Lyon  and  Lane  were  both  reported 
approaching  Fort  Wayne,  our  probable  destination.  Gen.  McCul- 
loch's  little  army  was  rapidly  increasing  in  strength.  His  activity, 
energy  and  determination  infused  life  into  all  the  command.  The 
men  grew  hilarious  over  the  anticipation  of  an  active  campaign,  and 
rejoiced  at  the  prospect  of  a  change  from  an  idle  camp  life  to  scenes 
more  worthy  the  spirit  which  had  led  them  thus  far  from  home.  On 
the  first  of  July  the  First  Division,  comprising  companies  A,  B,  G,  D, 
and  F,  left  Camp  Poteau  under  command  of  Col.  S.  M.  Hyams,  en 
route  for  some  point  northward,  and  camped  opposite  Yan  Buren. 

2nd.  Crossed  the  river  and  marched  four  miles.  3rd.  Marched 
eighteen  miles  and  camped  at  Natural  Dam.  4th.  Marched  twenty 
miles,  crossed  Bastoii  Mountain,  and  camped  at  Evansville.  To-day 
Col.  Hyams  made  a  neat,  appropriate  and  patriotic  speech,  of  which 
no  record  was  preserved.  5th.  Marched  twenty-two  and  one-half 
miles,  and  camped  at  Cincinnati.  6th.  Marched  twenty  miles  to 
"  Double  Springs."  7th.  Marched  fourteen  miles  to  Maysville.  Dr. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  39 

Kendall  was  sent  to  Gen.  McCulloch  with  a  special  dispatch,  an 
nouncing  the  arrival  of  the  detachment,  and  the  desire  to  push  for 
ward  and  join  him,  if  needed.  He  returned  the  next  day,  having 
ridden  114  miles  in  23  hours. 

THE   MARCH    TO    CAMP   JACKSON. 

The  Second  Division,  comprising  Companies  C,  E,  H,  I  and  K, 
under  command  of  Major  W.  F.  Tunnard,  left  Camp  Poteau  on  the 
morning  of  the  4th.  This  was  to  be  no  holiday  parade  amid  peace 
ful  pursuits  as  in  days  gone  by.  At  2  o'clock  A.  M.  the  reveille 
aroused  the  men  from  their  slumbers.  Knapsacks  for  the  first  time 
were  strapped  on  shoulders  all  unused  to  the  burden.  The  shelters 
which  had  so  long  protected  the  men  from  the  scorching  summer's 
heat  were  given  to  the  flames,  and  amid  the  wildest  enthusiasm  the 
men  commenced  the  march.  What  a  day  of  severe  experience  it 
was,  all  who  participated  therein  will  remember.  Shoulders  grew 
sore  under  the  burden  of  supporting  knapsacks  ;  limbs  wearied  from 
the  painful  march,  and  feet  grew  swollen  and  blistered  as  the  troops 
marched  along  the  dusty  road.  Knapsacks  were  recklessly  thrown 
by  the  roadside  or  relieved  of  a  large  portion  of  their  contents, 
under  the  intolerable  agony  of  that  first  march  of  only  nine  miles. 
Each  morning  the  detachment  was  aroused  at  1  A.  M.,  and  taking  a 
hasty  meal,  consisting  of  crackers  and  a  cup  of  coffee,  resumed  the 
march.  The  country  was  rocky,  and  the  road  hard  and  precipitous. 
The  men,  however,  soon  became  accustomed  to  marching,  and  bore 
its  hardships  with  fortitude  and  courage,  keeping  up  their  spirits  with 
songs  and  jokes  as  they  tramped  steadily  forward.  The  myriad  of 
stars  looked  down  on  a  strange  scene  indeed  as  this  band  of  reckless 
soldiers  proceeded  on  their  journey.  On  the  6th  crossed  Bastoii 
Mountain.  The  ascent  was  gradual,  yet  in  places  precipitous,  the 
road  being  a  mass  of  solid  rock,  full  of  boulders  and  loose  stones, 
extending  upward  for  a  distance  of  over  a  mile.  The  Major  dis 
mounted  and  led  the  men  on  foot,  and  while  they  threw  themselves 
in  perfect  exhaustion  on  the  ground  to  recover  breath  after  the  severe 
climb,  exhibited  his  activity  by  a  run  and  jump  over  some  of  the 
prostrate  forms.  The  descent  was  very  precipitous,  and  the  boys 
made  it  at  a  double-quick,  being  unable  to  halt  after  getting  under 
full  speed.  Few  are  there  who  do  not  remember  that  rocky  ascent, 
and  if  you  wished  to  make  one  of  the  Louisianians  swear  for  weeks 
afterward,  say  "  Baston  Mountain."  It  was  quite  sufficient  to  make 
expletives  innumerable.  The  detachment  usually  arrived  in  camp 
between  10  A.  M.  and  12,  thus  making  their  marches  mostly  before 


40  A   SOUTHERN   RE COED. 

the  heat  of  the  day.  When  the  day's  journey  was  ended,  the  men 
generally  threw  themselves  upon  the  ground  and  slept  long  and 
soundly  ere  thinking  of  preparing  anything  to  eat.  Just  beyond 
Baston  Mountain  is  the  village  of  Cincinnati,  near  which  the  detach 
ment  encamped.  They  were  enthusiastically  greeted  by  the  inhabi 
tants,  and  here,  as  elsewhere  along  the  route,  the  people  exhibited 
their  generosity  by  furnishing  the  men  with  milk  and  eatables,  such 
as  they  possessed.  These  acts  of  kindness  were  appreciated  and 
properly  acknowledged.  While  in  camp,  near  Cincinnati,  a  great, 
awkward  specimen  of  the  young  Arkansas  backwoodsman  came  into 
camp.  He  strolled  among  the  men  with  mouth  and  eyes  wide  open, 
with  a  mingled  expression  of  amazement,  astonishment  and  curiosity 
on  his  features,  much  to  the  amusement  of  the  men.  His  wonder 
increased  the  longer  he  looked  about  him,  until,  approaching  a  piece 
of  artillery,  his  thoughts  found  expression.  Addressing  a  Captain 
standing  near  by,  he  remarked  : 

"  I  say,  meister,  what  is  this  yere  thing  ?" 

"  A  cannon,"  remarked  the  Captain,  as  the  muscles  of  his  mouth 
began  to  twitch  and  his  eyes  to  sparkle. 

"  A  cannon,  hey  !  What  in  thunder  is  that  fur,  I  should  like  to 
know  ?" 

The  Captain  explained. 

His  eyes  grew  yet  more  distended. 

"  Well,"  drawing  a  long  breath,  "  that's  the  darndest  gun  ever  I 
seed." 

Coming  close  to  the  Captain  with  an  inquiring  glance  and  whis 
pered  words,  he  asked : 

"  I  say,  meister,  how  much  might  that  ere  cannon  cost  ?" 

"  Oh.  about  two  dimes  like  these,"  said  the  officer,  pulling  them 
from  his  pocket. 

"  Is  them  ere  dimes  ? — well  I  declare ;"  and,  turning  away,  he 
walked  off  muttering  indistinctly  the  words  "  cannons  "  and  "  dimes." 
Of  course  the  conversation  was  frequently  interrupted  by  explosions 
of  laughter  from  the  circle  who  had  gathered  around  this  green 
specimen  of  genus  homo. 

One  redeeming  feature  of  this  rocky,  mountainous  country  was  the 
number  of  cold  springs.  Ah !  it  was  a  delicious  luxury  after  the 
day's  weary  march  to  bathe  the  swollen,  feverish  and  blistered  feet 
in  these  streams  of  clear,  sparkling  water  ;  a  luxury  scarcely  to  be  ex 
changed  for  a  place  in  Mahomet's  paradise. 

While  on  the  march  information  reached  us  that  a  fight  had  taken 
place  at  Neosho,  Mo.  General  McCulloch  had  surprised  the  enemy 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  41 

there,  and  Captain  Mclntosli,  Adjutant-General  of  the  Brigade, 
reported  the  capture  of  eighty  Federals,  one  hundred  rifles,  and 
seven  wagons  loaded  with  provisions.  Two  of  these  wagons  were 
loaded  with  delicacies  and  provisions  sent  by  the  ladies  as  a  Fourth 
of  July  dinner  for  the  Republicans.  Unfortunately  both  the  intended 
recipients  and  their  luxuries  fell  into  the  hands  of  the  Southerners, 
and  the  Union  dinner  well  suited  rebel  appetites. 

The  country,  as  you  approach  Maysville,  becomes  more  level,  until 
finally  it  merges  into  a  fine  open  rolling  prairie  land,  interspersed 
with  belts  of  timber.  The  detachment  reached  Camp  Jackson  at  10 
A.  M.  on  the  morning  of  the  9th,  in  fine  spirits  and  health,  having 
performed  their  first  march  from  Fort  Smith,  a  distance  of  over  100 
miles,  over  a  rough  road  and  in  the  midst  of  the  hottest  season  of 
the  year,  in  five  days  and  two  hours.  The  first  detachment  were  in 
camp  awaiting  our  arrival.  Quite  a  number  of  troops,  comprising 
artillery,  infantry  and  cavalry,  had  already  assembled  here  from 
Missouri  and  Arkansas.  McCulloch  arrived  at  the  same  time  from  his 
trip  to  Neosho,  bringing  with  him  abundant  evidence  of  his  success. 
It  was  here  the  Third  Regiment  had  their  first  good  look  at  their 
leader.  He  was  enthusiastically  welcomed,  and  complimented  the 
regiment  highly  upon  their  fine  military  appearance  and  bearing.  A 
good  story  was  told  of  General  McCulloch's  strategy  in  learning  the 
enemy's  force  and  plans.  Disguised  as  a  drover  he  went  boldly  into 
the  Federal  camp  to  sell  his  cattle,  of  which  he  had  a  number.  He 
succeeded  admirably  without  his  rank  or  intentions  being  discovered, 
and  having  gained  all  necessary  information,  made  the  attack  which 
proved  so  successful.  Of  undaunted  courage,  iron  nerve  and-will, 
never  for  a  moment  losing  his  self-control  under  the  most  trying 
circumstances,  he  delighted  in  such  perilous  adventures.  The  Fed 
erals  at  this  time  were  in  force  near  Springfield,  and  the  General 
went  energetically  to  work  organizing  his  little  army  preparatory  to 
an  early  move  on  the  foe. 


CHAPTER    V. 

CAMP  JACKSON. 

CAMP  JACKSON,  so  named  in  honor  of  the  Governor  of  Missouri, 
was  located  about  three  miles  east  of  Maysville,  in  a  belt  of  woods 
skirting  the  eastern  limits  of  a  broad  expanse  of  prairie  stretching 
its  bosom  far  away  south,  north  and  west.  The  prairie  in  front  of 
the  encampment  furnished  a  fine  and  ample  parade-ground,  and  the 
grass  was  not  left  to  grow  undisturbed  by  the  evolutions  of  armed 
men. 

On  the  12th  the  troops  were  once  more  under  marching  orders, 
and  at  8  A.  M.  next  morning  left  Camp  Jackson  for  Bentonville, 
distant  28  miles.  There  were  about  three  thousand  men  on  the 
road,  which  was  terribly  dusty,  and  the  weather,  as  usual,  clear  and 
sultry.  Ammunition  was  distributed  to  the  troops,  and  everything 
pointed  to  an  early  engagement.  Marched  fifteen  and  a  half  miles. 
On  the  14th  passed  through  Bentonville,  a  small  but  pleasant  village, 
situated  in  Benton  County,  on  the  outskirts  of  an  extended  prairie. 
This  was  the  Sabbath,  yet  to  the  soldier  all  days  seemed  alike.  How 
different  this  dusty,  long  march,  from  the  quiet  Sabbaths  at  home, 
where  matin-bells  summon  a  Christian  people  to  the  houses  of  wor 
ship  !  War  is  a  hard  task-master,  and  heeds  not  the  calls  of  con 
science.  As  usual,  springs  of  cool,  clear  water  were  abundant  along 
the  route.  Marched  12  miles.  On  the  15th  we  encamped  amid  the 
hills  of  Arkansas  at  a  spot  known  as  Camp  McCulloch,  being  a  small 
field  on  the  level  surface  of  one  of  the  numerous  rocky  promontories 
of  the  country.  The  rain  poured  down  in  torrents,  and  we  began 
to  experience  some  of  the  inconveniences  of  a  soldier's  varied 
existence.  The  men  made  beds  of  the  rails  from  a  worm-fence  close 
at  hand,  to  keep  their  bodies  from  the  damp  ground,  covering  their 
rough  edges  witii  straw  and  shucks,  which  they  deemed  an  especial 
luxury,  and  upon  which  they  laid  down  to  pleasant  dreams.  Receiv 
ing  marching  orders  early  the  next  day,  the  troops  moved  forward  a 
short  distance  and  encamped  on  Sugar  Creek,  a  small  mountain 
stream  winding  its  tortuous  way  amid  the  surrounding  hills.  This 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  43 

was  known  as  Camp  Stephens,  in  honor  of  our  Vice-President,  being 
seven  miles  east  of  Bentonville.  Here  Gratiot's  Arkansas  regiment 
joined  us.  The  weather  was  unusually  fine,  our  encampment  pleasant, 
yet  many  of  the  extra  duty  men  will  remember  the  severe  labor  of 
clearing  a  parade-ground  where  they  obtained  their  first  experience 
in  digging  up  stumps  and  grubbing  out  roots.  While  remaining 
here  a  tremendous  storm  occurred  at  night,  flooding  the  camp  with 
water,  which  flowed  in  a  miniature  river  through  its  centre,  sweeping 
away  pans,  basins,  tables,  etc.  Amid  the  lightning's  vivid  flash  and 
the  deep  roll  of  the  thunder  could  be  heard  the  shouts  of  the  men, 
exclamations  and  expletives,  as  they  were  literally  drowned  out  of 
their  beds.  "  Knee-deep,"  one  would  shout.  "Quarter  less  twain," 
came  from  another  direction.  "  Quack  !  quack  !  quack  !"  answered 
a  third,  thus  displaying  an  indifference  to  their  inconveniences,  and 
a  commendable  endeavor  to  make  sport  out  of  each  other's  mishaps. 
The  morning  after  the  storm  exhibited  scenes  which,  under  other 
circumstances,  would  have  been  considered  lamentable,  but  which 
the  boys  called  ludicrous.  On  impromptu  elevations  the  men  were 
lying  in  the  mud  and  water,  oblivious  to  all  their  mishaps,  curled  up 
like  snakes,  and  one  of  them  actually  making  a  bed  of  the  drum 
head.  On  Sunday,  22d,  one  of  Churchill's  scouting  parties  had  a 
brisk  skirmish  with  a  like  party  of  the  enemy,  whom  they  succeeded 
in  driving  back,  although  largely  superior  in  numbers.  A  few  of 
the  Southerners  were  wounded,  none  killed,  while  the  foe  suffered 
severely.  A  prisoner  was  brought  into  camp,  and  the  men  rushed 
to  obtain  a  view  of  him,  as  if  he  was  some  great  curiosity  and  not  a 
mortal  similar  to  themselves. 

Camp  Stephens  was  daily  visited  by  numbers  of  ladies  from  the 
surrounding  country,  who  always  had  pleasant  smiles  and  cheerful 
words  for  the  soldiers.  A  brass  band  attached  to  one  of  the  Ar 
kansas  regiments  discoursed  most  excellent  music,  and  was  a  great 
feature  of  our  camp  life  and  a  source  of  great  gratification  to  our 
men.  Soldiers,  as  a  class,  are  passionately  fond  of  music.  Well  do 
we  remember  with  what  deep  emotions  we  have  listened  to  the 
harmonious  strains  as  they  floated  out  on  the  air  some  still  moon 
light  night,  returning  in  murmuring  echoes  from  the  surrounding 
hills.  Truthfully  has  the  great  English  bard  written  : 

"  He  who  hath  not  music  in  himself,  and  whose  soul  is  not  moved  by  a  sweet 
concourse  of  sounds,  is  fit  for  treason,  stratagem  and  spoils." 

An  unfortunate  accident  occurred  on  the  23d,  resulting  in  the  in 
stantaneous  death  of  James  Howard,  a  member  of  Company  u  F," 


44  A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

by  the  discharge  of  a  gun  through  the  carelessness  of NagL\ 

of  Company  "  Gl."  Nagle  became  frightened,  and  immediately  de 
serted.  This  event  was  the  cause  of  great  excitement,  resulting  in 
a  quarrel  between  the  Colonel  and  several  of  the  officers,  who,  being 
reported  to  General  McCulloch,  were  placed  under  arrest.  Differ 
ences  were,  however,  finally  adjusted,  and  the  regiment  and  other 
troops  under  marching  orders  once  more  on  the  26th.  From  this 
time  we  were  in  the  midst  of  continued  scenes  of  excitement.  On 
the  28th  crossed  the  line  and  entered  Missouri.  While  on  the 
march,  received  intelligence  of  the  secession  of  Missouri.  Reached 
Keatsville  in  the  middle  of  the  day,  the  roads  being  very  dusty  and 
the  heat  almost  intolerbale.  It  being  reported  that  there  was  fight 
ing  ahead,  the  regiment  closed  up  and  pushed  rapidly  forward  with 
loud  cheers.  The  exhausted  stragglers  in  the  rear  came  up  at  a  full 
run,  forgetting  their  fatigue  in  the  excitement  of  an  anticipated 
fight.  Churchill's  regiment  had  already  pushed  forward,  and 
already  had  a  brisk  encounter  with  the  foe.  On  the  29th  reached 
Cassville,  where  the  regiment  was  greeted  with  the  wildest  enthu 
siasm  by  the  Missourians.  Amid  vociferous  cheers,  the  thunder  of 
artillery  and  waving  of  banners,  the  regiment  marched  past  the 
camp  of  the  State  troops,  eliciting  numerous  remarks  of  praise  and 
admiration  by  their  steady  and  regular  tread  and  their  deportment 
as  a  disciplined  body  of  troops.  An  isolated  regiment  amid  Ar 
kansas  and  Missouri  troops,  each  member  felt  as  if  in  his  individual 
person  was  concentrated  the  honor  and  fair  name  of  Louisiana — a 
feeling  which  undoubtedly  contributed  largely  to  their  subsequent 
deeds  of  valor  and  unconquerable  determination  never  to  yield  to 
the  foe.  From  the  first  organization  of  the  army  the  Louisianians 
became  the  favorites  of  the  other  troops,  between  whom  and  them 
selves  grew  up  a  strong  feeling  of  friendship,  which  neither  time 
nor  any  other  circumstance  could  destroy. 

On  the  29th  a  lady  came  into  camp  from  beyond  Springfield  with 
important  dispatches  sewed  up  in  her  clothing.  Her  husband  had 
been  engaged  to  take  these  dispatches,  but  became  very  ill.  She 
volunteered  to  supply  his  place;  and  leaving  home  and  the  sick 
husband's  bedside,  successfully  accomplished  her  mission,  having 
passed  through  the  whole  Federal  army.  Such  heroism  was  the 
theme  of  every  tongue,  and  showed  what  Southern  women  would 
do  for  their  country.  It  is  to  be  regretted  that  her  name  was  not 
dotted  down  to  adorn  the  pages  of  this  history.  Yet  is  she  not 
forgotten. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

THE   ADVANCE. 

AT  Cassville  the  army  was  thoroughly  organized  for  an  advance 
on  Springfield,  and  separated  into  three  divisions  as  follows  :  First 
Division,  under  command  of  Colonel  L.  Hebert,  4,000  strong,  to 
march  on  the  30th ;  the  other  Divisions,  of  about  equal  strength, 
the  two  following  days.  On  the  1st  of  August  our  army  encamped 
on  Crane  Creek,  distant  twenty-seven  miles  from  Springfield,  Mo., 
where  we  soon  received  intelligence  that  the  enemy  were  rapidly 
advancing  on  our  position  with  a  strong  force,  supposing  that 
McCulloch's  army  was  weak  in  numbers  and  could  be  easily  de 
feated.  In  fact,  it  was  stated  that  General  Lyons  boasted  that  he 
would  drive  us  'bade  into  Mexico  and  drown  us  in  the  Gulf.  He  little 
dreamed  what  brave  and  indomitable  spirits  he  must  conquer. 

August  2d  the  camp  was  thrown  into  a  state  of  feverish  excite 
ment  by  orders  to  arm,  as  the  enemy  was  advancing.  It  seems,  how 
ever,  that  our  advanced  guard,  composed  chiefly  of  Missourians 
(mounted),  had  suddenly  come  upon  the  enemy,  nine  miles  distant, 
who  had  fired  upon  them,  when  they  precipitately  fled  without 
returning  the  fire  or  attempting  to  show  fight.  Some  few  Arkansas 
troops,  however,  who  were  with  them,  engaged  the  enemy,  and  a 
brisk  skirmish  fight  ensued,  our  loss  being  only  one  man  killed. 
Captain  Stanley,  a  brave  and  dashing  officer  of  the  United  States 
Regular  Army,  was  killed  in  the  fight  by  a  negro  attached  to  the 
Missouri  troops.  On  the  3d  Churchill's  Regiment  of  mounted  in 
fantry—a  gallant,  daring  and  dashing  body  of  men — were  sent  for 
ward  with  instructions  to  decoy  the  enemy  into  our  camp,  where  a 
well-planned  ambuscade  had  been  prepared  for  their  reception. 
General  Lyons,  it  seems,  had  discovered  the  strength  of  our  forces 
and  the  plan  to  welcome  his  arrival  from  a  deserter  out  of  our  camp. 
His  men  pursued  only  within  three  miles  of  our  position. 

In  order  that  the  situation  of  the  army  may  be  fully  comprehended, 
we  give  the  following  explanation :  The  road  ran  from  the  valley  of 
Crane  Creek  through  a  ravine  flanked  by  steep  hills,  where  it  would 


46  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

be  impossible  for  one  arrny  to  attack  another  without  suffering  ter 
ribly  from  an  ambuscade  or  masked  batteries.  The  hill-sides, 
extending  close  down  to  the  road,  were  covered  with  a  dense,  almost 
impenetrable  growth  of  black  jacks  and  hazel-bushes.  The  Louis- 
ianians  were  placed  in  position  on  the  extreme  right  of  the  whole 
army,  and  where  a  fight  seemed  inevitable,  went  to  work  with  their 
knives  and  sabre-bayonets,  lopping  off  the  branches  of  the  trees  and 
bushes  which  obstructed  a  good  view  of  the  road,  in  order  to  render 
their  aim  and  fire  more  effective.  The  retreat  of  Churchill's  Regi 
ment  was  a  helter-skelter  flight,  in  accordance  with  previous  instruc 
tions  ;  and  as  they  rushed  by  our  position  amid  clouds  of  dust,  the 
rapid  flight  of  horsemen,  artillery,  and  wagons  sounded  like  the 
roar  of  many  waters.  The  men  waited  and  watched  for  the  foe, 
compressed  lips  and  blanched  faces  betokening  the  inward  excite 
ment,  while  not  a  man  moved  from  his  allotted  place.  The  night  of 
the  3d,  Companies  A  and  K,  under  command  of  Captain  Viglini, 
were  placed  in  position  as  sharp-shooters  on  the  rocky  hill-side,  com 
manding  a  full  view  of  the  road,  with  instructions  to  support  the 
advance  picket  and  keep  back  the  enemy  in  case  of  an  attack. 
Directly  in  front  of  their  position  the  road  ascended  a  steep  hill,  in 
a  direct  line,  at  whose  base,  right  and  left,  two  more  roads  branched 
off  along  the  adjacent  valleys.  The  main  road,  directly  in  front  of 
our  line,  composed  of  white  pulverized  stone,  stood  out  a  bold, 
clearly-defined  line  in  the  darkness,  along  which  no  living  object 
could  travel  without  being  instantly  discovered.  No  moon,  with  its 
silvery  rays,  lighted  up  the  hill-tops,  only  myriad  stars  shone  from 
the  clear  heavens  above,  while  the  cold  dews  chilled  the  forms  of 
the  watchful  soldiers.  The  hill  on  which  we  were  stationed  was 
composed  of  small,  angular,  flinty  rocks,  on  which  the  men  reposed, 
after  various  and  sundry  contortions  of  body  to  find  a  "  soft  part" 
and  remove  their  cutting  acquaintance.  Every  other  man  along  the 
line  of  skirmishers  slept  at  stated  intervals,  while  the  remainder 
kept  a  close  watch  on  the  roads.  The  foe  came  not ;  and  late  in  the 
afternoon  of  the  succeeding  day  the  detachment  of  sharp-shooters 
were  relieved  from  duty  and  permitted  to  return  to  camp.  Companies 
E  and  I  taking  their  places.  During  this  time  the  Third  Regi 
ment  was  still  kept  in  position,  the  remainder  of  the  army  being  on 
their  camping- grounds.  The  boys  did  not  fully  appreciate  the 
honor  bestowed  or  confidence  placed  in  them  as  efficient  and  brave 
soldiers. 

The  next  day  was  the  Sabbath,  bright,  beautiful  and  golden.     All 
remained  quiet  until  nearly  noon,  when  a  balloon  was  discovered 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  47 

hovering  over  our  camp,  which  sailed  eastward  in  the  direction  of 
the  enemy.  All  was  bustle  and  activity,  as  the  troops  rapidly  as 
sembled  in  their  respective  quarters.  A  report  soon  prevailed  that 
the  enemy  had  penetrated  the  left  of  our  position,  and  the  balloon 
was  a  preconcerted  signal  for  an  advance  on  our  front  and  flank. 
It  proved  a  false  rumor,  and  the  army  reposed  in  security  and 
quietude. 

During  this  time  the  generals  had  assembled  for  consultation  as  to 
the  future  movements  of  the  army,  as  it  was  found  impossible  to 
remain  longer  in  its  present  position,  the  water  being  actually  offen 
sive  from  filth,  and  provisions  for  the  army  very  scarce.  We  must 
either  retreat  or  advance.  Desperate  as  was  the  alternative,  it  was 
determined  to  advance.  The  order  was  issued  to  prepare  to  march 
Sunday  night,  the  4th  inst,  at  11  o'clock  p.  M.  All  realized  the 
desperation  of  such  a  move,  yet  not  a  man  quailed  or  was  found 
missing  from  his  place  in  the  regiment.  Last  messages  were  de 
livered  to  those  derailed  to  remain  with  the  wagons,  packages  for 
the  loved  ones  at  home  made  up,  and  the  men  laid  down  to  what 
many  deemed  their  final  living  sleep,  ere  the  march  commenced. 
When  the  hour  for  departure  arrived,  the  regiment  was  ready  and 
equipped,  the  gallant  boys  on  the  right  of  the  whole  army,  led  by 
Company  K.  Not  a  man  free  from  detailed  duty  was  absent  from 
his  place.  At  Hi  o'clock  the  whole  army  was  in  motion.  In  sec 
tions,  six  abreast,  and  close  order,  the  men  took  up  the  line  of  march 
in  anticipation  of  meeting  almost  certain  death,  but  with  undaunted, 
unquailing  spirits.  In  breathless  silence,  with  the  bright  and  glit 
tering  stars  looking  down  upon  them  through  dark  and  deep  defiles 
and  beneath  frowning  hill-sides,  marched  the  dense  array  of  men, 
moving  steadily  forward ;  not  a  whisper  was  heard,  no  sound  of 
clanking  sabre,  or  rattle  of  canteen  and  cup. 

Tramp  !  tramp  !  tramp  !  firm  and  undaunted,  the  army  proceeded 
on  its  perilous  journey  like  a  band  of  dark  spirits,  over  the  hard 
and  rocky  road,  accompanied  by  the  dull  rumbling  of  the  artillery 
carriages  over  hills,  along  a  road  skirted  by  dense  underbrush  and 
tall  trees,  and  through  those  narrow  defiles  the  army  proceeded. 
That  was  a  night  that  tried  men's  souls.  Although  moving  forward 
in  momentary  expectation  of  being  attacked,  nothing  special  oc 
curred.  As  the  first  roseate  hues  of  morn  tinged  the  eastern  hori 
zon,  our  advance  came  upon  the  picket  of  the  enemy,  who  were  so 
completely  taken  by  surprise  that  they  precipitately  fled,  leaving 
behind  them  coats,  provisions  and  utensils.  Greer's  Texas  regiment 
of  cavalry  joined  us  at  this  time.  They  were  a  splendid  body  of 


48  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

daring,  dashing  Texan  Hangers,  magnificently  armed  and  mounted. 
The  army  moved  steadily  forward,  with  cavalry  on  both  flanks, 
scouting  the  surrounding  hills  and  woods.  About  10  o'clock  in  the 
morning,  while  halting  near  a  well  for  the  purpose  of  resting  and 
procuring  water,  the  men  were  watching  the  general  as  he  sat  perched 
on  the  top  of  a  corn -crib.  The  head  of  the  column  had  been  halted 
just  within  the  limits  of  a  woodland,  ere  the  road  emerged  into  an 
open,  rolling  prairie-land  as  far  as  the  eye  could  reach.  Soon  the 
General  was  observed  to  look  long  and  anxiously  through  his  field- 
glass.  A  wave  of  his  hand  summoned  an  aid-de-camp  to  his  side, 
who  soon  brought  orders  for  the  regiment  to  take  position  on  the 
right,  in  a  dense  growth  of  hazel  skirting  the  road.  Every  man 
was  ordered  to  conceal  himself,  a  section  of  artillery  run  to  the  front, 
rapidly  unlimbered,  loaded  and  pointed  so  as  to  sweep  the  road. 
What  could  it  mean  ?  Shortly,  far  away  over  the  prairie,  a  cloud 
of  dust  was  seen  to  mount  upward.  Nearer  and  nearer  it  approached, 
until  a  body  of  the  enemy's  cavalry  was  discovered  in  hot  pursuit 
of  one  of  General  McCulloch's  scouts.  They  rode  boldly  to  within 
point  blank  of  the  concealed  line  of  battle  ere  they  discovered  their 
mistake,  when,  wheeling  suddenly,  they  fled  rapidly,  not  a  shot 
being  fired  at  them.  Through  the  excessive  heat  and  over  dusty 
roads  the  march  was  continued,  the  enemy  retreating  as  we  advanced. 
The  men  suffered  terribly  from  thirst,  there  being  little  or  no  water 
on  the  route.  Their  sufferings  became  so  intolerable  that  finally  the 
General  marched  them  one  and  a  half  miles  away  from  the  road  to 
procure  water,  in  order  to  allay  their  burning  thirst.  The  army  then 
pushed  rapidly  forward  in  pursuit  of  the  retreating  foe,  who  were 
reported  but  a  short  distance  in  advance  at  a  spring.  It  was  soon  dis 
covered,  however,  that  they  were  still  retreating.  As  soon  as  this  was 
known,  the  Missouri  horsemen  came  rushing  up  from  the  rear,  riding 
heedlessly  through  the  ranks  of  hot,  tired,  thirsty  and  dusty  men, 
almost  suffocating  them.  The  regiment,  in  order  to  protect  them 
selves,  halted,  fixed  bayonets,  and  determinedly  compelled  them  to 
quit  the  road.  Arriving  at  Big  Spring,  the  men  and  animals  made 
tin  indiscriminate  rush  for  the  water,  which  was  fortunately  abund 
ant  and  fine.  The  enemy  had  been  gone  but  about  three  hours, 
having  left  many  things  behind  them  in  their  precipitate  retreat. 
That  night  our  army  laid  down  in  an  open  field  without  shelter. 
The  regiment  had  thus  lain  out  all  night  previous  to  the  march, 
traveled  all  the  succeeding  night  in  great  suspense  and  anxiety,  pur 
sued  a  retreating  enemy  all  day  over  dusty  roads  and  in  extremely 
sultry  weather,  and  the  night  of  August  5th  slept  in  the  open  air 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  49 

without  blankets  or  food,  the  next  morning  proceeded  abou  two  milo3 
and  encamped  near  Wilson's  Creek,  nine  miles  from  Springfield- 
The  position  was  as  follows :  we  were  on  a  hill-side,  at  whose  west 
ern  base  flowed  a  stream,  the  hill  sloping  away  north  and  east,  along 
which  ran  the  main  road  to  Springfield.  Opposite  our  encampment, 
west  and  northwest  rose  in  a  gradual  slope  a  succession  of  hills 
extending  as  far  as  the  eye  could  reach.  The  hillside  northwest  was 
about  three-quarters  of  a  mile  distant,  the  intervening  space  being 
covered  by  corn-fields  in  the  valley  formed  by  Wilson's  Creek.  On 
the  north  was  a  slight  rise  beyond  the  ravine,  covered  as  usual  with 
a  dense  undergrowth  of  black  jack  and  hazel,  skirting  a  large  and 
open  corn  and  hay-field.. 


CHAPTER    VII. 

OAK  HILLS. 

ON  Friday,  the  9th  inst.,  the  order  was  to  prepare  to  march  at  8 
p.  M.  on  the  position  of  the  enemy,  in  order  to  surprise  them.  The 
post  of  honor  and  danger  as  usual  being  assigned  to  the  Third  Regi 
ment,  the  van  guard  of  the  center  division  on  the  main  road  leading 
to  Springfield,  Providence  prevented  the  consummation  of  these 
proposed  plans.  Early  in  the  morning  the  sky  became  overcast  with 
dark,  dense  and  lowering  clouds,  accompanied  by  thunder  and  light 
ning,  and  in  the  afternoon  of  the  same  day  a  light  rain  began  to  fall. 
Many  of  the  Arkansas  and  Missouri  troops  were  armed  with  the  old 
fashioned  flint-lock  guns,  carrying  their  ammunition  in  a  buckskin 
pouch,  as  is  customary  v/ith  the  backwoods  hunters.  It  would  not 
do  to  expose  the  ammunition  to  the  elements,  and  thus  render  unser 
viceable  the  assistance  of  a  large  force  of  our  army.  At  9  o'clock 
the  order  for  an  advance  was  countermanded,  but  the  troops  required 
to  hold  themselves  in  readiness  to  march  at  a  moment's  notice.  The 
picket  guards  had  been  recalled  so  as  to  be  ready  to  march  with  their 
respective  commands,  and  in  expectation  of  momentarily  receiving 
marching  orders,  the  different  regimental  commanders  objected  to 
sending  them  out  again.  It  was  a  serious  blunder,  yet  who  was 
responsible  for  the  mistake  or  oversight  we  cannot  truthfully  deter 
mine.  Thus  all  unguarded  the  army  sank  to  repose,  the  men  to 
dream  of  home  and  coming  exciting  scenes,  after  bitterly  expressing 
their  disappointment  at  the  delay.  All  eager  for  a  battle,  they  little 
dreamed  of  the  fearful  scenes  of  slaughter  and  bloodshed.  The 
morning  of  August  10th  had  scarcely  tinged  the  Eastern  horizon 
with  the  grayish  dawn,  and  ere  many  of  the  men  were  out  of  their 
tents,  when  the  battle  opened.  Looking  to  the  hill  northwest  of 
our  camp,  could  be  seen  the  wagons,  ambulances,  and  many  horse 
men  of  the  advance  encampment  fleeing  from  the  coming  battJe 
storm.  The  couriers  and  aids-de-camp,  with  furious  speed,  were 
delivering  orders.  The  Third  Regiment  promptly  formed  on  the 
hill,  many  of  them  minus  coats  in  their  eager  haste.  Scarcely  had 


THIRD  LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  51 

they  formed  line  ere  McCullocli  dashed  tip,  furious  with  excitement 
and  rage,  and  shouted,  "  Colonel,  why  in  hell  don't  you  lead  your 
men  out  ?""'  The  question  was  not  repeated.  Company  K  had  been 
transferred  from  the  left  to  the  right,  which,  with  Company  A,  was 
under  the  leadership  of  Captain  J.  P.  Viglini.  Captain  Woodruff 
of  Little  Rock  was  in  position  with  his  guns  commanding  the  valley 
and  adjacent  hill  sides.  As  the  regiment  began  to  move  into  posi 
tion,  a  puff  of  smoke  arose  from  a  clump  of  trees  northwest  of  our 
position,  followed  by  another  accompanied  by  thp  ugly  scream  of 
shot  and  their  sudden,  dull  thug  into  the  ground.  The  men  shouted 
at  each  iron  messenger  as  it  approached,  many  indulging  in  jokes  and 
witticisms,  such  as  exclaiming,  u  this  ball  music  is  fine  for  dancing." 
"  Here  conies  another  iron  pill."  "Dodge,  boys,  but  don't  tumble." 
But  the  majority  were  calm,  pale  with  excitement,  compressed  lips, 
and  blazing  eyes  betokening  the  spirit  of  their  determination.  We 
quickly  entered  the  ravine  north  of  our  encampment,  marching  in 
close  columns  of  companies,  and  approached  the  corn  field  already 
described.  During  this  time  the  battle  had  opened  on  all  sides,  and 
Woodruff  and  Totten  were  fighting  a  lively  artillery  duel.  As  the 
regiment  advanced  through  the  dense  undergrowth  towards  the  open 
field,  a  terrible  and  scathing  fire  was  opened  on  them  by  nearly 
double  their  numbers  of  U.  S.  Regulars,  the  flower  of  General  Lyons' 
army.  The  regiment  rapidly  wheeled  into  line  of  battle,  each  com 
pany  taking  its  position  with  prompt  celerity.  Numbers  of  the  men 
had  already  fallen. 

The  enemy  were  securely  posted  behind  the  fence,  while  our  po 
sition  among  the  bushes  rendered  it  almost  an  utter  impossibility  to 
obtain  a  good  view  of  them,  even  by  our  coolest  and  clearest  sighted 
marksmen.  Seeking  every  possible  protection  and  shelter,  the  fight 
was  maintained  with  a  stubborn  and  determined  valor.  Not  a 
stone's  throw  from  each  other  these  lines  of  men,  composed  of  old 
regulars  and  a  virgin  volunteer  regiment  of  Louisianians,  were  com 
bating  each  other  with  dogged  obstinacy.  The  fight  lasted  upwards 
of  an  hour,  and  those  who  listened  to  the  musketry  declared  it  to 
have  been  terrific  in  its  volume  of  sound.  Men  were  dropping  all 
along  the  line ;  it  was  becoming  uncomfortably  hot,  when  Captain 
Mclntosh  dashed  along  the  line,  shouting  "  Get  up,  Louisianians,  and 
charge  them  !  Do  you  all  wish  to  be  killed  ?"  With  a  tremendous 
cheer,  so  fearful,  coming  from  men  under  fierce  excitement,  they 
rushed  on  the  foe  with  fixed  bayonets,  led  by  the  field  and  line  offi 
cers  and  Capt.  Mclntosh.  The  regulars  fled  from  the  deadly  charge, 
with  but  few  exceptions,  and  as  the  regiment  reached  the  fence,  they 


52  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

poured  a  heavy,  rapid  fire  into  their  ranks,  killing  and  wounding 
large  numbers,  punishing  them  thoroughly  for  the  damage  already 
inflicted  upon  us.  Over  the  fence,  across  the  field,  after  the  foe,  did 
the  boys  charge  with  loud  cheers,  until  they  once  more  approached 
the  enemy's  battery  within  point-blank  range.  Beneath  its  protect 
ing  fire  the  beaten  foe  had  taken  shelter.  The  battery  immediately 
concentrated  its  fire  upon  the  regiment  as  it  began  to  form  a  new 
line  of  battle.  Canister  shot  and  shell  were  rained  upon  them  until 
it  became  too  uncomfortable  to  be  withstood.  The  order  was  given 
to  retire  behind  the  protection  of  a  hill  immediately  in  the  rear  of 
the  field.  It  was  obeyed  with  zealous  alacrity,  and  the  men  de 
camped  instanter,  watching  the  flash  of  the  enemy's  guns  as  they 
retreated,  and  falling  prostrate  on  the  ground  permitted  the  iron 
hail  to  pass  over  them,  and  then  rise  only  to  run  and  repeat  the  same 
manoeuvre.  It  was  taking  very  practical  lessons  in  the  manual  a  la 
Zouave.  Not  half  a  dozen  men  were  injured  in  this  retreat.  None 
killed.  The  oificers  immediately  began  to  form  the  regiment,  which 
had  become  much  scattered  in  their  precipitate  retreat,  when  Gen. 
McCulloch  rode  up  to  the  right  of  the  line  and,  after  making  some 
inquiries  and  remarks,  said,  "  Come,  my  brave  lads,  I  have  a  battery 
for  you  to  charge,  and  the  day  is  ours  !"  The  regiment  at  this  time 
were  only  partially  organized,  mostly  from  the  right  companies,  with 
some  scattering  men  from  the  others.  The  men,  however,  followed 
the  leadership  of  their  brave  General  with  steady,  regular  tread  along 
the  valley,  crossing  around  the  base  of  the  hill,  over  the  creek,  where 
the  road  took  an  abrupt  turn  westward,  and  ascended  a  precipitous 
rocky  hill,  to  the  left  of  which  was  posted  Siegel's  battery.  At  the 
creek  numbers  momentarily  halted  to  gulp  down  a  few  mouthfulls 
of  water  to  quench  their  burning  thirst.  It  mattered  little  to  them 
that  it  was  filthy  and  loathsome,  that  it  was  red  with  blood,  and 
blackened  men  lined  its  banks  and  bathed  their  burning  limbs  and 
torturing  ghastly  wounds  in  its  waters.  After  crossing  the  creek,  the 
General  halted  at  intervals,  while  in  point  blank  range  of  the  battery, 
and  taking  a  survey  through  his  field-glass,  would  coolly  turn  in  his 
saddle,  waive  his  hand,  and  simply  utter  the  monosyllables,  "  Come 
on  !"  His  actions  and  features  were  a  study  for  the  closest  scrutinizer 
of  physiognomy.  Not  a  quiver  on  his  face,  not  the  movement  of  a 
muscle  to  betray  anxiety  or  emotion.  Only  his  grey  eyes  flashed 
forth  from  beneath  his  shaggy  eyebrows  a  glittering,  scrutinizing 
and  penetrating  glance.  As  the  men  reached  the  protection  of  the 
hill  on  which  the  battery  was  stationed,  and  ere  an  order  had  been 
given,  a  man  stepped  from  behind  the  shelter  of  a  huge  oak  on  its. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  53 

summit.  The  general  abruptly  halted  and  inquired  in  a  calm,  clear 
voice :  "  Whose  forces  are  those  ?"  The  reply  came  back,  in  distinct 
tones :"  Siegel's."  u  Whose  did  you  say  ?"  "Union.  Siegel."  At 
the  same  time  raising  his  rifle  with  deliberate  aim  to  fire.  Ere  his 
purpose  was  accomplished,  the  sharp  crack  of  a  Mississippi  rifle 
proclaimed  the  flight  of  a  death  messenger  on  its  fearful  errand. 
That  shot  was  fired  by  Corporal  Henry  Gentles,  of  Company  K.  The 
aim  was  quick  and  accurate,  and  as  the  man  dropped  heavily  to  the 
ground  without  a  groan,  the  General  turned  to  the  corporal  remark 
ing  simply,  "  That  was  a  good  shot.1'  The  remark  was  characteristic 
of  his  coolness  under  the  most  perilous  and  trying  circumstances. 
The  General  turned  to  Captain  Viglini,  standing  close  to  him,  and 
said :  "  Captain,  take  your  men  up  and  give  them  hell."  The  men 
scaled  the  rocky  hill-side  and  came  abruptly  upon  the  enemy's  guns. 
With  loud  huzzas  they  rushed  upon  the  battery,  sweeping  it  at  the 
point  of  the  bayonet,  ere  the  amazed  foe  could  recover  from  their 
astonishment.  They  fled  into  a  corn-field  and  along  the  road  in  the 
rear  of  their  lost  battery,  with  the  victors  in  close  pursuit.  In  the 
field  upwards  of  200  were  killed  and  wounded,  so  close  and  deadly 
was  the  fire  poured  into  their  retreating  columns.  This  gallant 
charge  resulted  in  the  capture  of  three  12-pounder  howitzers,  and 
two  6-pounder  field  guns.  Here  fell  Capt.  Hinson,  of  Company  B, 
and  his  brother-in-law,  Mr.  Whitstonc,  killed  by  an  unfortunate  shot 
from  one  of  our  own  batteries  under  charge  of  Capt.  Reed,  which, 
unknown  to  the  regiment,  had  been  pouring  a  heavy  and  destructive 
fire  upon  these  guns.  The  loss  of  these  gallant  men  was  deeply  de 
plored,  under  such  circumstances.  The  guns  were  rolled  down  the 
hill-side,  and  the  regiment,  including  the  remainder  who  had  arrived 
under  Major  Tunnard,  formed  once  more  and  marched  about  a  mile 
northward  to  attempt  the  capture  of  Totten's  battery,  which  had 
given  them  such  a  hot  reception  early  in  the  day.  After  flanking 
their  position,  owing  to  an  unfortunate  delay,  they  managed  to 
escape.  Around  these  guns  the  fight  had  been  deadly  and  furious. 
The  hill-sides  were  literally  covered  with  the  dead  and  wounded  of 
friend  and  foe.  Here  Gen.  Lyon  met  his  fate,  a  just  reward  for  his 
murder  of  innocent  women  and  children  in  the  streets  of  St.  Louis. 
The  enemy,  completely  discomforted,  began  a  precipitous  flight  at 
about  2  o'clock  p.  M.  The  battle  was  over ;  the  foe  repulsed  at  every 
point ;  Gen.  Lyon  killed ;  the  colors  in  our  possession,  and  Siegel's 
battery  captured.  The  different  regiments  were  marched  to  their 
respective  camps.  The  loss  of  the  Third  Regiment  was  9  killed,  47 
wounded,  and  3  missing ;  that  of  the  army  2G5  killed  and  about  700 


54  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

wounded.  The  men  eagerly  scouted  the  battle-field  and  brought  in 
the  killed  and  wounded.  Our  dead,  dressed  in  their  best  clothes, 
and.  with  a  blanket  for  a  winding  sheet,  were  sadly  committed  to 
soldiers'  graves  by  their  friends.  The  Texans  under  Col.  Greer  won 
an  enviable  reputation  by  their  dashing  and  reckless  bravery.  They 
pursued  the  foe  into  Springfield,  killing  and  capturing  numbers  on 
the  road,  and  taking  Siegel's  remaining  gun  and  stand  of  colors,  and 
planting  the  first  secession  flag  in  Springfield. 

The  loss  of  the  enemy  in  this  fight  was  estimated  at  about  800 
killed,  1,200  wounded,  and  350  prisoners,  while  a  large  number  of 
the  most  approved  small  arms  fell  into  the  possession  of  our  vic 
torious  army.  So  hasty  was  the  flight,  that  the  foe  threw  away  small 
arms,  blankets,  coats,  and  knapsacks,  which  were  strewn  along  the 
road  for  miles.  Their  dead  were  deserted,  and  their  wounded  filling 
every  available  dwelling  and  building  in  Springfield,  left  to  the  care 
of  the  Confederates.  An  officer,  with  a  flag  of  truce,  came  for  Lyon's 
body,  which  was  taken  to  Springfield,  but  even  it  was  deserted  in 
their  hurried  retreat,  and  was  buried  by  Mrs.  Phillips,  the  wife  of 
the  U.  S.  Congressman  from  that  district.  This  second  general  battle 
of  the  war,  fought  under  such  disadvantageous  circumstances  by  the 
Southerners  against  fully  equal  numbers,  better  armed  and  disciplined, 
was  a  complete,  thorough  victory.  Yet  the  Northern  press  and 
Northern  historical  records  of  the  war  have  falsified  its  correct  de 
tails  in  almost  every  particular. 

The  following  are  the  official  reports  of  the  field-officers  of  the 
regiment : 

u  HEADQUARTERS  TIIIP.D  REGIMENT  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY,  ) 
Camp  at  Wilson's  Creek,  Mo.,  August  12,  1861.  f 

"  To  Brigadier  Ben.  McCullocJi,  commanding  Confederate  States  Army : 

"  SIR, — I  have  the  honor  to  report  the  part  that  my  regiment 
took  in  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills  on  Saturday  the  10th.  Aroused  by 
yourself  early  in  the  morning,  I  formed  my  regiment,  and  following 
the  direction  of  Captain  James  Mclntosh,  Brigadier- Adjutant- 
General,  followed  the  Springfield  road  for  a  short  distance  to  a 
narrow  by-road,  flanked  on  both  sides  by  the  thickest  kind  of  under 
brush,  and  on  one  side  by  a  rail  fence.  This  road  led  to  a  corn-field. 
At  the  moment  of  deploying  into  line  of  battle,  and  when  only  two 
companies  had  reached  their  position,  the  enemy  opened  their  lire 
on  our  front  within  five  paces.  Deploying  the  other  companies,  an 
advance  was  ordered,  led  gallantly  and  bravely  by  Captain  Mcln  • 
tosh,  to  whom  I  owe  all  thanks  for  assistance. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  55 

"  The  enemy  posted  behind  a  fence  in  the  corn-field.  The  com 
panies  moved  up  bravely,  broke  the  enemy,  pursued  them  gallantly 
into  the  corn-field  and  routed  them  completely.  On  emerging  from 
the  corn-field,  the  regiment  found  themselves  on  a  naked  oat-field, 
where  a  battery  on  the  left  opened  upon  us  a  severe  fire.  The  order 
was  given  to  fall  back  to  a  wooded  ground  higher  up  to  the  right. 
The  order  was  obeyed,  but  by  some  misunderstanding  the  right  of 
the  regiment  and  some  of  the  left  were  separated  from  the  left  and 
found  themselves  under  the  command  of  Lieutenant-Colonel  Hyams, 
who  there  received  your  order  to  march  to  attack  Siegel's  battery, 
and  command  on  the  left  of  the  field  of  battle.  His  report  is  here 
with  transmitted,  giving  an  account  of  the  operations  of  his  bat 
talion  up  to  the  time  of  my  joining  him.  I  remained  myself  near 
the  above-named  corn-field,  rallying  and  reforming  the  left  into  a 
detachment  of  some  one  hundred  men.  I  advanced  towards  Totten's 
(enemy's)  battery.  I  advanced  to  a  position  some  five  hundred 
yards  from  the  battery,  where  I  remained  before  the  line  of  the 
enemy  some  twenty-five  or  thirty  minutes,  when,  falling  back,  I 
again  rallied  some  stray  portions  of  the  regiment,  and  marched,  by 
orders,  to  join  the  right  wing  on  the  left  of  the  field.  This  I  did ; 
and  having  reformed  the  regiment,  I  received  orders  to  move,  so  as 
to  place  myself  in  the  rear  of  the  enemy's  battery  (Totten's)  then 
closely  engaged  in  front.  Although  moving  as  expeditiously  as 
possible,  I  did  not  reach  the  proper  position  until  Totten's  battery 
had  been  drawn  back  in  retreat.  Some  of  the  enemy  still  remained 
on  the  hill  and  in  a  ravine.  I,  however,  hesitated  to  attack,  having 
discovered  a  force  immediately  in  my  rear,  whom  I  did  not  ascertain 
to  be  friends  for  some  twenty  minutes.  I  then  ordered  the  advance, 
attacked  the  enemy  and  put  them  to  flight.  In  this  the  regiment 
was  very  gallantly  assisted  by  a  detachment  of  Missourians  and 
others,  whom  I  then  supposed  to  be  under  the  immediate  command 
of  Captain  Johnson.  This  fight  ended  the  engagement  of  my  regi 
ment  for  the  day.  The  Regiment  was  formed  on  the  hill  previously 
occupied  by  the  enemy,  and,  by  orders,  was  marched  back  to  their 
camp.  The  first  of  the  engagement  of  the  regiment  commenced  at 
6£  o'clock  A.M.  and  ended  at  1 J  o'clock  P.M.,  when  the  enemy  made 
their  final  retreat.  I  transmit  a  list  of  the  killed,  wounded  and 
missing,  recapitulating  as  follows :  Killed,  1  commissioned  officer, 
1  non-commissioned  officer  and  7  privates ;  total  killed,  9.  Wounded, 
8  commissioned  officers,  6  non-commissioned  officers  and  39  privates ; 
total,  48.  Missing,  3  privates. 

"  Proud  of  the  manner  in  which  my  regiment  behaved  in  their 


56  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

first  fight  against  the  enemy  of  our  Confederate  States  (a  fight  in 
which  officers  and  men  displayed  endurance,  bravery  and  determina 
tion),  it  is  difficult  for  me  to  particularize  the  service  of  officers  and 
men.  I  will,  however,  bring  to  the  notice  of  the  Commanding 
General  some  cases.  The  whole  of  my  staif  acted  with  great  cool 
ness  and  bravery ;  the  Lieutenant-Colonel  leading  a  battalion,  in  my 
absence,  against  Siegel's  battery,  and  the  Major  assisting  constantly 
in  the  rear  wing.  Captain  Theodore  Johnston,  Quartermaster,  was 
of  invaluable  service  in  transmitting  orders,  rallying  the  men  and 
encouraging  them  to  stand  by  their  colors,  often  exposing  himself 
to  the  fire  of  the  enemy.  Adjutant  S.  M.  Hyams,  Jr.,  left  his  horse 
and  fought  bravely  on  foot.  Captain  Thomas  L.  Maxwell,  Commis 
sary,  followed  the  regiment  in  battle,  and  assisted  much  in  rallying 
the  men.  The  lamented  Captain,  R.  M.  Hinson,  fell  while  gallantly 
leading  his  company  against  Siegel's  battery.  A  nobler  gentleman 
and  a  braver  soldier  could  not  have  been  found.  Sergeant-Major  J. 
O.  Renwick  was  shot  down  in  my  presence  in  the  first  fight 
whilst  bravely  fronting  and  fighting  the  enemy.  He  was  the  first 
killed  of  the  regiment.  Dr.  George  "W.  Kendall,  a  volunteer  sur 
geon  on  the  field,  was  active  and  untiring  in  his  exertions  to  relieve 
the  wounded.  In  the  reports  of  Company  Commanders,  many  acts 
of  bravery  and  gallantry  by  non-commissioned  officers  and  privates 
are  mentioned. 

"  With  the  consent  of  the  General,  I  shall  seek  hereafter  occasions 
to  show  that  their  conduct  has  been  noticed.  I  cannot  conclude 
without  saying  that  the  conduct  of  Captain  James  Mclntosh,  in 
throwing  himself  with  my  regiment  in  our  first  fight,  and  in  the 
attack  on  Siegel's  battery,  greatly  contributed  to  the  success  of  our 
arms,  and  deserves  unlimited  praise. 

"  I  must  not  forget  also  to  return  to  the  Commanding  General 
himself  the  thanks  of  the  Regiment  and  my  own  for  his  presence  at 
the  head  of  the  right  wing  at  the  charge  on  Siegel's  battery. 

"  With  high  respect,  I  remain,  your  obedient  servant. 

"Louis  HEBERT,  Colonel  Commanding.'''' 

' -Report  of  Lieutenant- Colonel  Hyams  to  Colonel  Hebert,  of  Third  Louis 
iana  Regiment : 

"  SIR,— In  the  morning  of  the  10th  of  August,  1881,  after  forming 
with  the  regiment  and  inarching  to  the  thicket  and  corn-field,  and 
your  command  on  the  order  of  a  charge  in  the  thicket,  I  dismounted 
and  was  on  foot  with  the  command  in  the  charge.  The  Sergeant- 
Major  Renwick  was  killed,  as  was  Private  Placide  Bossier,  of  Peli- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  57 

can  Rangers,  No.  1.  After  crossing  the  fencing  and  running  the 
enemy  through  the  corn-field,  where  the  enemy's  artillery  were 
showering  grape  and  shell,  with  Minie  muskets,  I  was  met  by 
General  McCuiloch,  who  ordered  the  regiment  to  face  to  the  right 
and  march  by  flank  movement  towards  the  creek,  and  cent  an  aid 
to  communicate  the  order  to  you  further  on  the  right  of  the  regi 
ment. 

"  In  this  first  encounter  in  the  bushes,  where  all  behaved  well,  it 
was  impossible  to  designate  any  particular  individual.  Here  I  first 
noticed  the  fearlessness  and  undaunted  bravery  and  activity  of 
Captain  Theodore  Johnson,  Quartermaster,  in  communicating  orders 
from  headquarters. 

"  Learning  from  him  that  you  was  separated  from  the  command, 
he  attached  himself  to  that  portion  of  the  regiment  under  me, 
composed  of  the  Pelican  Rifles,  Captain  Viglini ;  Iberville  Grays, 
Lieutenant  Yerbois ;  Morehouse  Guards,  Captain  Hinson  ;  Pelican 
Rangers,  No.  2,  Captain  Blair  ;  Winn  Rifles,  Captain  Pierson ; 
Morehouse  Fencibles,  Captain  Harris ;  Shreveport  Rangers,  Captain 
Gilmore ;  Pelican  Rangers,  No.  1,  Captain  Brazeale ;  and  a  few  of 
the  Mouticello  Rifles  under  Sergeant  Walcott,  and  seventy  of  the 
Missouri  troops  (who  had  attached  themselves  to  rny  command) 
under  Captain  Johnson.  We  were  conducted  by  the  gallant  Captain 
Mclntosh  across  the  ford  to  Siegel's  battery  where,  having  deployed 
in  line,  the  charge  was  ordered.  On  my  giving  the  order  and  arriv 
ing  on  the  brow  of  the  hill,  Lieutenant  Lacy,  of  the  Shreveport 
Rangers,  sprang  on  a  log,  waved  his  sword  and  called,  "  Come  on, 
Caddo."  The  whole  command  pushed  forward,  carried  the  guard, 
rushed  to  the  fence  and  drove  the  enemy  off.  Here  the  gallant 
Captain  Hinson,  in  cheering  his  men,  was  killed  by  a  shot  from  our 
own  battery  taking  us  in  flank.  Private  Whitstone,  of  the  More- 
house  Guards  (brother-in-law  of  Captain  Hinson),  was  killed  at  his 
side  by  the  same  shot.  I  cannot  speak  in  too  high  commendation 
of  both  officers  and  men  for  their  coolness  and  bravery.  They  had 
charged  and  taken  five  guns  out  of  six  of  the  battery,  and  passed 
beyond  them  without  knowing  we  had  them,  except  those  com 
panies  immediately  in  front  of  the  guns. 

u  The  standard-bearer  of  the  regiment,  Felix  dialer,  of  Pelican 
Rangers,  No.  1,  behaved  with  great  coolness  and  courage,  advanc 
ing  and  bearing  them  to  the  front  in  every  charge.  Corporal  Hicock, 
of  the  Shreveport  Rangers,  Private  J.  P.  Hyarns,  of  Pelican  Rangers, 
No.  1,  and  Corporal  Gentles,  of  Pelican  Rifles,  rushed  forward  and 
captured  one  cannon  that  was  just  in  rear  of  the  first  guns  cap- 


58  A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

tured  (about  one  hundred  yards),  where  they  killed  the  only  man 
who  remained  with  his  gun,  the  rest  of  the  cannoniers  having 
abandoned  the  gun  at  their  approach. 

"  Orderly  Sergeant  Alphonse  Prudhomme  is  reported  to  have 
cheered  and  acted  with  coolness.  The  Color  Company  stuck  to  the 
colors,  as  did  the  Shreveport  Rangers,  and  all  rallied  to  the  flag. 
I  cannot  speak  too  highly  of  the  courage  and  activity  of  all  our 
gallant  officers  and  men  in  this  charge.  It  is  impossible  to  say  which 
company  was  in  advance,  where  all  obeyed  orders  and  went  so  gal 
lantly  into  action.  But  for  the  unfortunate  casualty  created  by  our 
own  battery  firing  into  our  flank  and  raking  us,  killing  several  and 
wounding  many,  we  would  have  had  but  few  regrets. 

u  Poor  Hicock,  having  advanced  in  front  of  the  regiment  in  driv 
ing  the  enemy  from  the  corn-field  round  the  large  white  house,  was 
shot  in  the  breast.  Here  I  beg  to  call  attention  to  the  gallantry  of 
Captain  Mclntosh,  who  conducted  us  to  the  front  of  the  attack. 
Quartermaster  Theodore  Johnson,  of  our  regiment,  was  of  great 
assistance,  and  behaved  with  distinguished  bravery.  We  rolled 
their  captured  guns  down  the  hill,  and  one  cannon  was  conducted 
with  its  horses  to  our  artillery.  We  then  marched  back  to  the 
valley  below  the  hill,  and  were  in  line  when  you  joined  us  with  the 
rest  of  the  regiment.  Drum-Major  Patterson,  of  the  Pelican  Rifles, 
left  his  drum,  shot  the  first  man  of  the  enemy,  after  calling  them 
selves  friends,  thereby  stopping  our  fire  and  their  treacherously  firing 
upon  us. 

"  I  am,  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

"S.  M.  HYAMS,  Lieut.- Col  Third  Regt.  La.  Vols." 

Colonel  Hyams'  report  contains  some  inaccuracies,  as  will  be 
easily  discovered  from  the  author's  version  of  the  battle.  The  first 
detachment  was  led  by  General  McCulloch  in  person,  and  not  by 
Captain  Mclntosh,  who  was,  however,  present  at  the  charge. 

REPORT  OF  MAJOR  W.  F.  TUNNARD. 

"  Colonel  L.  Ilebert,  commanding  Third  Regiment  La.  Volunteers  : 

"  SIR, — In  accordance  with  your  request  I  have  the  honor  to  make 
the  following  report  of  events  that  occurred  under  my  immediate 
notice  in  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills  : 

"  When  the  regiment  was  ordered  to  form  at  6  A.M.,  I  assisted  in 
getting  the  companies  in  line,  and  marched  out  of  camp 'with  the 
left  wing,  the  enemy's  batteries  having  opened  on  our  forces  before 
we  left  camp.  We  marched  out  to  the  right,  and  by  order  of 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  59 

Adjutant-General  Mclntosh,  I  assisted  in  deploying  tlie  regiment  in 
a  thick  oak  under-brush  to  the  left  of  the  road,  and  before  we  were 
in  the  field  ten  minutes  we  were  fired  on  by  the  enemy,  1,800  strong, 
who  were  ambushed  in  a  corn-field  behind  a  fence.  After  exchang 
ing  several  shots  with  them,  and  a  number  of  our  men  being  killed 
and  wounded,  an  order  to  charge  was  given  by  Colonel  Mclutosh, 
which  was  immediately  responded  to  by  our  men  with  a  cheer  and 
shout.  On  rushing  to  the  fence,  the  enemy  immediately  turned  and 
fled  in  disorder,  our  regiment  pursuing  and  shooting  them  as  they 
ran.  In  this  pursuit  I  was  with  the  left  wing,  cheering  them  on 
until  we  reached  an  open  field,  where  we  found  the  enemy  protected 
by  Totten's  battery,  which  at  once  opened  on  us  as  we  attempted 
to  form.  I  immediately  ordered  the  regiment  to  scatter  and  move 
to  the  right,  where,  under  cover  of  a  hill,  with  the  assistance  of 
Captain  Maxwell,  the  line  was  formed.  While  I  was  engaged  in 
getting  our  scattered  forces  together  in  line  General  McCulloch  rode 
up  and  led  off  the  right  to  attack  Siegel's  battery,  and  I  found  the 
left  companies,  with  a  large  number  of  the  right  wing,  had  become 
separated  from  the  right  in  passing  through  the  bushes.  We 
marched  on  to  join  the  right  of  the  Regiment.  In  crossing  the  ford 
in  the  valley,  we  received  a  discharge  of  grape  and  canister  from 
Siegel's  battery,  which  wounded  several  of  the  men  and  shot  my 
horse.  I  then  led  the  detachment  on  foot,  the  battery  having  been 
taken  and  the  enemy  again  repulsed  by  the  right  wing  and  in  full 
retreat  before  we  joined  the  regiment.  The  regiment  being  formed, 
marched  out  under  your  command  to  attack  Totten's  battery.  On 
arriving  at  the  point  of  attack,  we  found  the  battery  removed  and 
the  enemy  in  full  retreat,  except  a  reserve,  which  fired  several  shots 
at  us,  which  were  promptly  returned.  This  ended  the  battle  for 
the  day.  An  accidental  discharge  of  a  musket  by  one  of  our  men 
wounded  three  of  our  number,  one  very  severely. 

"  In  each  engagement  our  men  behaved  gallantly,  and  under  the 
severe  fire  of  the  batteries,  that  poured  a  continual  shower  of  grape, 
shot  and  shell,  they  never  faltered. 

"  I  have  the  honor  to  be,  yours  respectfully,  etc., 

W.  F.  TUNNARD,  Major,  Third  Regiment  La.  Vols. 

The  following  ofEcial  dispatch  speaks  for  itself : 

"  HEADQUARTERS  MISSOURI  STATE  GUARDS,  ) 
Springfield,  August  15,  1861.  f 

"  COLONEL, — General  Price  instructs  me  to  say  that  the  discipline 
and  bravery  which  your  regiment  displayed  in  the  late  battle  were 


60  A    SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

so  marked,  and  your  services  and  theirs  so  efficient  in  winning  that 
important  victory,  that  he  would  fail  in  his  duty  were  he  not  to 
express  to  you  and  to  them  his  own  high  appreciation  of  the  dis 
tinguished  services  of  the  Louisiana  Eegiment  on  that  occasion, 
and  the  gratitude  with  which  the  officers  and  men  of  this  army  and 
the  people  of  Missouri  will  always  remember  you,  your  officers  and 
men. 

"  I  have  the  honor  to  be,  witli  the  greatest  respect, 

"•  Your  obedient  servant, 

"  THOMAS  L.  SMEAD,  Acting  Adjutant- General. 
"  To  Colonel  L.  Jlebert,  Louisiana  Regiment." 
[A  true  copy  of  the  original.] 

Louis  HEBEBT,  Colonel  Third  Eegiment,  La.  Vols. 

War  viewed  from  the  standpoint  of  the  peaceful  home  circle,  witli 
its  surroundings  of  happy  and  loved  faces,  and  the  comforts  and 
conveniences  of  life,  exhibits  none  of  that  hideous  deformity  which 
environs  its  dread  reality.  The  battle  of  Oak  Hills  enlightened 
many  ignorant  minds  as  to  the  seriousness  and  fearful  certainty  of 
the  contest.  It  did  not,  however,  unnerve  a  single  arm  to  strike  a 
fresh  blow,  or  dampen  the  ardor  of  a  single  heart.  It  proved 
thoroughly  the  dashing  bravery  of  the  Southern  soldier,  contending 
under  every  disadvantage  against  almost  inevitable  defeat,  and  taught 
the  enemy  also  a  severe  lesson  of  what  the  future  contained.  So 
sudden  and  unexpected  the  attack,  so  close,  terrible  and  obstinate 
the  contest,  that  numbers  thought  the  day  irretrievably  lost  and  gave 
up  in  hopeless  despair.  Not  so  with  the  Louisianians,  who  never  for 
an  instant  felt  that  they  were  whipped.  Through  the  thickest  and 
hottest  of  the  fight,  where  shot  and  shell  fell  fastest,  and  the  rifles 
poured  their  storm  of  leaden  hail,  the  regiment  forced  its  way, 
charging  the  foe  with  loud  cheers,  and  always  driving  them  from 
their  positions.  For  more  than  six  hours  the  desperate  conflict  con 
tinued,  beneath  the  cloudless  sky  and  in  the  sultry  atmosphere  of  an 
August  clay. 

When  the  enemy  were  finally  repulsed  and  driven  in  dismay  from 
the  field,  an  opportunity  was  aiforded  to  view  the  result  and  obtain 
p.ome  definite  information  of  the  slaughter. 

Soon  after  the  battle  ended  the  enemy,  under  a  flag  of  truce,  com 
menced  attending  to  their  dead,  dying  and  wounded.  All  the  re 
mainder  of  the  10th,  after  the  conclusion  of  the  battle,  and  during 
the  whole  night,  seven  of  their  six-mule  teams  were  busily  engaged 
carrying  off  their  clead  and  wounded.  Early  Sunday  morning,  Sergt. 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  Gl 

W.  H.  Tunnard,  of  Co.  K,  was  detailed  as  sergeant  of  a  large  force 
to  finish  the  burial  of  the  enemy's  dead.  Armed  with  shovel,  pick 
axe  and  spade,  the  detail  proceeded  to  the  principal  point  of  tho 
battle-field  to  complete  this  mournful  task,  which  the  enemy,  unable 
to  accomplish,  had  abandoned  in  despair.  The  ground  was  still 
thickly  strewn  with  the  ghastly  and  mangled  forms.  Fifty-three 
bodies  were  placed  in  a  single  grave,  all  gathered  within  the  compass 
of  one  hundred  yards.  These  were  hastily  covered  with  brush  and 
stones,  when  the  detail  precipitately  departed.  The  effluvia  from 
the  swollen,  festering,  blackened  forms,  already  covered  with  worms 
was  too  horrible  for  human  endurance.  Hundreds  unburied  were 
left  food  for  the  worms,  fowls  and  beast  of  the  earth.  No  concep 
tion  of  the  imagination,  no  power  of  human  language  could  do 
justice  to  such  a  horrible  scene. 

OFFICIAL  REPORTS   OF   KILLED   AND   WOUNDED   AT   OAK  HILLS. 

The  force  under  Gen.  Price  engaged  numbered  5,300 ;  killed  156 ; 
wounded  517.  Among  the  casualties  were  the  names  of  a  number 
of  gallant  officers,  as  the  following  list  shows : 

KILLED. — Colonels  II.  II.  Weitman  and  Ben.  Brown ;  Lieutenant- 
Colonels  Austin  and  G.  W.  Allen ;  Major  Charles  Rogers ;  Captains 
Blackwell,  Enghart,  Farris,  Halleck,  and  Coleman;  Lieutenants 
Hughes,  and  Haskins ;  Adjutant  C.  II.  Bennet. 

WOUNDED. — Brig.-Gens.  Slack  and  Clark;  Colonels  Benbridge, 
Foster  Kelly  and  Crawford  ;  Captains  Nichols,  Dougherty,  and  Ann- 
strong. 

Col.  Mclntosh,  Adjutant  Gen.  McCulloch's  Brigade,  reported  losses 
as  follows : 

Third  Louisiana  Regiment :  9  killed,  48  wounded,  3  missing ;  Lt.- 
Col.  McRae's  Battalion  :  2  killed,  6  wounded ;  Col.  Mclntosh's  Regi 
ment :  11  killed,  55  wounded;  Capt.  Woodruff's  Battery:  2  killed, 
2  wounded,  1  missing;  Capt.  Reid's  Battery:  1  wounded;  Col. 
Churchill's  Regiment :  42  killed,  153  wounded ;  Greer's  Regiment, 
Texas  Cavalry,  loss  not  known. 

Clmrchiirs  Regiment  were  the  greatest  sufferers,  the  first  attack 
being  made  on  this  regiment,  the  enemy  capturing  their  camp  and 
wagons,  and  baggage,  which  they  destroyed.  The  standard-bearer 
of  one  company  was  changed  four  times,  three  being  shot  while  car 
rying  the  colors. 

Amid  the  early  scenes  and  incidents  of  the  war  it  was  not  an  un 
usual  occurrence  to  find  men  of  high  position  in  society,  leaving 


62  THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY. 

home,  profession,  and  the  pursuits  of  daily  life,  to  unite  their  for 
tunes  with  the  humblest  and  most  unobtrusive  citizens  of  the  land. 

The  history  of  the  Third  Regiment  and  the  account  of  its  first 
initiation  into  the  scenes  of  the  bloody  drama  of  the  war,  would  be 
incomplete  without  the  mention  of  two  persons,  who  participated  in 
the  hard  fought  field  of  Oak  Hills.  We  refer  to  Dr.  W.  G.  Kendall, 
and  the  Hon.  Wm.  Robson.  These  gentlemen  were  from  Shreveport, 
joined  the  regiment  at  Van  Buren  as  amateur  soldiers,  continued 
with  the  regiment  until  after  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills,  on  which  oc 
casion  they  rendered  most  efficient  service. 

Dr.  Kendall,  a  gentleman  of  refined  manners,  cultivated  intellect^ 
and  high  position  in  his  profession,  made  innumerable  friends  in  the 
regiment  by  his  kind  and  affable  manner,  and  genial  good  nature. 
At  Oak  Hills  he  was  in  the  hottest  of  the  fight,  exhibiting  a  cool 
courage  worthy  of  one  who  had  voluntarily  attached  himself  to  the 
fortunes  of  one  of  Louisiana's  most  gallant  organizations.  Col. 
Hyaras  wrote  under  date  of  August  13,  1861 :  uDr.  Kendall  was  in 
the  fight,  assisted  the  wounded,  and  occasionally  took  a  pass  at  the 
enemy.  He  rendered  great  service  as  aid  to  the  surgeons  after  the 
battle." 

The  Hon.  Wm.  Robson,  at  the  commencement  of  hostilities,  was  a 
member  of  the  Legislature,  but  this  did  not  deter  him  from  uniting 
his  fortunes  to  those  of  the  Third  Infantry,  and  often  could  he  be 
found  with  a  musket,  doing  duty  as  a  private,  in  the  ranks.  He  is 
a  man  of  undoubted  bravery,  calm,  cool,  self-possessed  under  the 
most  trying  circumstances.  "  W.  Robson,"  Col.  Hyams  said,  "  acted 
as  aid  to  Col.  Hebert,  and  was  in  the  thickest  of  the  fight,  rallying 
stragglers,  and  conveying  orders.  He  showed  great  coolness  and 
bravery." 

Dr.  Kendall  tells  the  following  anecdote  of  Robson.  "  The  Union 
men  fought  as  guerrillas,  to  some  extent  picking  off  stragglers  on  the 
field.  One  of  these  parties  got  near  Robson  and  took  a  clear  "  clat 
ter  "  at  him  at  about  120  yards,  one  of  the  shots  killing  a  negro  boy's 
horse  alongside  of  R.  He  thought  that  was  no  place  for  him,  bent 
down  to  the  saddle  bow  and  gallopped  over  a  hill  at  "  double-quick." 
They  took  the  negro  boy  to  Springfield,  thinking  he  belonged  to  R., 
and  said  they  had  killed  his  master,  and  now  he  belonged  to  them. 
A  man  by  the  name  of  Phelps,  a  son  of  the  U.  S.  Congressman,  was 
the  leader,  and  claimed  the  honor  of  killing  Robson.  The  boy 
escaped,  and  was  rejoiced  to  find  R.  alive.  He  had  on  his  person 
his  master's  watch  and  $300  in  gold,  which  he  brought  back  with 
him." 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  63 

"  Robson  rallied  the  stragglers,  and  at  one  time  brought  up  forty- 
five  men  to  where  the  regiment  was  engaged.  Some  were  rather 
inclined  to  remain  behind,  but  finally,  seeing  that  R.  was  not  afraid 
to  ride  through  the  fire,  concluded  to  follow  him.  He  and  his  sorrel 
pony  were  conspicuous  characters.  He  was  known  in  the  regiment 
as  Capt.  Robson." 

ADDITIONAL   INTERESTING  PARTICULARS. 

On  Tuesday  after  the  battle  the  Federal  prisoners  were  in  the  pub 
lic  square  at  Springfield  under  guard,  and  outside  was  a  crowd  of 
Missourians,  Arkansians,  and  camp  followers  generally.  Directly  a 
party  commenced  singing  "  Dixie,"  a  new  version  for  the  occasion. 
One  of  the  prisoners  after  they  got  through  said,  "  Ah,  well !  I  only 
wish  you  had  stayed  in  Dixie."  At  one  time,  just  after  the  capture 
of  Biegel's  battery,  the  rumor  prevailed  that  Col.  Hebert  was  down. 
Dr.  Hebert  anxiously  inquired  for  him,  and  at  that  moment,  far  above 
the  crashing  of  the  small-arms,  could  be  heard  the  stern,  clear  tones 
of  the  gallant  colonel  urging  on  the  Louisiana  regiment :  "  Steady, 
my  men — steady  !"  Just  then  Gen.  Price  was  rallying  the  stragglers 
of  the  Missouri  line,  urging  them  on  to  a  final  attack,  u  for  in  tAventy 
minutes  the  Louisiana  regiment  will  charge  again,  and  if  we  rally  to 
the  front  this  battery  will  be  taken." 

Gen.  Price  behaved  with  great  gallantry,  exposing  his  own  person 
freely  and  not  hesitating  to  send  his  men  into  danger.  He  was 
slightly  wounded.  Col.  Weightman,  of  Atchison,  Mo.,  was  in  com 
mand  of  a  Missouri  brigade  (infantry),  with  a  battery  which  was  so 
badly  provided  with  ammunition  that  they  took  iron  bars  one  and 
one-half  inch  square  and  cut  them  up  into  chunks,  using  them  as 
grape.  These  pieces  made  most  horrible  wounds,  but  were  soon 
exhausted.  His  brigade  fought  like  heroes  both  here  and  at  Carthage, 
but  the  colonel  fell  early  in  the  action,  mortally  wounded,  and  died 
before  the  battle  was  over.  He  was  formerly  in  the  U.  S.  Army,  and 
was  a  veiy  highly  accomplished  and  able  officer ;  his  death  was  an 
almost  irreparable  loss  to  Missouri,  and  cast  a  gloom  over  the  whole 
army. 

Col.  Hebert  was  actively  employed  throughout  the  day,  and  added 
another  chaplet  to  his  already  high  reputation  as  an  officer.  At  no 
time  were  the  enemy  able  to  force  any  of  the  regiments  back,  and 
the  men  would  get  in  so  close  to  their  lines  that  the  shot-guns  loaded 
with  buckshot  told  with  fearful  effect,  and  the  much  valued  Mini 6 
guns  of  the  foe  overshot  the  Southerners. 

Capt.  Theodore  Johnson  (Quartermaster  of  the  regiment)  acted 


64  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

as  aid  to  Col.  Hebert,  and  was  actively  engaged  in  carrying  orders, 
and  showed  great  coolness  and  courage. 

Lieut.  J.  O.  Wells,  of  Co.  F,  had  been  on  the  sick-list,  reduced  by 
flux  from  159  pounds  to  124,  but  staggered  to  his  place  and  stood  at 
his  post,  bravely  doing  his  duty  throughout  the  whole  fight. 

Of  the  activity,  courage,  and  valuable  assistance  rendered  by  Dr. 
G.  W.  Kendall  and  Win.  Robson  too  much  cannot  be  said.  The 
former,  a  citizen  of  Shreveport,  a  gentleman  of  polished  manners, 
refined  education,  and  standing  high  in  his  profession,  with  Wm. 
Robson,  Esq.,  then  a  member  of  the  Louisiana  Legislature,  joined 
the  regiment  at  Van  Bureu  as  independent  volunteers.  Dr.  Kendall 
was  in  the  fight,  cool  and  courageous,  often  joining  in  the  fray ;  as 
sisted  the  wounded,  and  rendered  valuable  and  great  assistance  as 
aid  to  the  surgeons  after  the  battle.  He  had  a  horse  killed  under 
him  during  the  fight. 

Gen.  Lyon  was  killed  about  half-past  one  o'clock,  while  bravely 
leading  his  men.  His  uniform  coat  was  cut  up  into  small  pieces  and 
carried  away  as  relics.  His  horse,  a  magnificent  gray  stallion,  im 
ported  from  England  by  Mr.  January,  of  St.  Louis,  was  also  killed, 
and  the  boys  cut  all  the  hair  from  his  mane  and  tail,  and  dis 
tributed  it. 

Maj.  Tunnard,  of  the  Louisiana  regiment,  had  Ms  horse  shot  under 
him. 

Col.  Mclntosh  was  seriously  bruised  by  a  grape-shot  in  the  side. 
Churchill's  First  Arkansas  Regiment  fought  desperately,  as  did  Mc- 
Intosh's  and  Gratiot's  Third  Arkansas,  and  were  under  a  tremendous 
fire  for  a  long  time  from  a  superior  force,  but  kept  up  such  a  furious 
fire  with  shot-guns,  flint-lock  muskets,  etc.,  that  the  enemy  could  not 
be  brought  to  charge  them.  McRae's  Battalion  won  its  share  of 
laurels.  When  he  heard  of  Weightman's  death,  with  a  wild  shout 
for  vengeance,  he  led  his  men  into  the  fray  where  most  needed. 
When  marching  from  Crane  Creek,  Lieut.-Col.  Hyams  was  on  the 
sick-list,  suffering  intensely  from  rheumatism  and  a  kick  from  a  sore- 
backed  Indian  pony ;  but,  at  the  rumored  approach  of  the  enemy, 
mounted  his  horse,  reported  himself  at  headquarters  ready  for  duty, 
and  was  with  the  regiment  on  the  march,  in  their  ambuscades,  and 
through  the  battle,  coolly  and  calmly  directing  the  men. 

HOW   THEY   FLED. 

After  the  arrival  of  the  troops  at  Wilson's  Creek,  eight  of  Wood 
ruff's  artillerymen,  guided  by  a  tall  Missourian,  left  camp  to  obtain 
some  forage  for  their  horses.  The  Missourian  stopped  at  a  creek, 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  G5 

the  artillerymen  went  on.  The  Mssourian  started  after  them,  but 
had  not  proceeded  far  when  he  met  four  men  on  horseback,  with 
white  bands  around  their  hats.  He  inquired  of  them,  u  Have  you 
seen  any  artillerymen  ahead  ?"  They  replied,  "  Oh  !  yes,  some  of  the 
U.  S.  artillerymen  are  in  a  field  a  little  way  ahead."  The  Missourian 
replied,  "You  are  mistaken,  those  men  belong  to  Uncle  Jell1." 

They  waited  to  hear  no  more ;  wheeled  their  horses  "  right  about," 
and  fled  to  the  woods. 

INCIDENTS    PREVIOUS     TO    AND     CONNECTED   WITH    THE    BATTLE   OF 
OAK   HILLS. 

When  the  army  reached  Crane  Creek,  August  1,  a  rumor  came 
that  the  enemy  was  approaching.  Captain  Mclntosh,  with  that 
reckless  daring  and  dashing  bravery  so  characteristic  of  the  man, 
dashed  up  the  road  with  a  detachment  to  see  what  was  the  matter. 
About  4  o'clock  a  few  horsemen  came  down  the  road  past  the  camp, 
and  following  on.  in  hot  haste,  came  the  main  body  of  the  advance- 
guard,  mixed  up  with  the  wagons,  and  all  coming  as  hard  as  whip 
and  spur  could  urge  the  horses.  They  went  sweeping  by,  giving 
the  alarming  intelligence  that  the  enemy  had  advanced  in  great 
force  and  cut  them  off  and  killed  Mclntosh.  Still  no  message  came 
to  McCulloch.  The  Sergeant-Major  of  the  regiment,  without  orders, 
had  the  "  long  roll"  beaten,  and  the  men  "  fell  in"  in  double-quick 
time.  General  McCulloch  dashed  up  the  road  fairly  foaming  with 
rage,  exhausting  his  whole  vocabulary  of  vituperation  (no  meagre 
one)  in  denunciations  of  Rains'  Missouri  Cavalry,  who  had  thus 
most  disgracefully  stampeded  without  any  apparent  cause.  Every 
man  was  eagerly  questioned  about  Colonel  Mclntosh,  and  finally  one 
old  fellow  had  seen  a  man,  answering  his  description,  as  he  came 
by.  "  Well !  what  was  he  doing  ?"  "  Cussin'  the  Missourians," 
was  the  prompt  reply.  A  roar  of  laughter,  followed  by  a  cheer, 
arose,  for  the  identification  was  certain  and  satisfactory,  and  all 
knew  that  Mclntosh  was  safe. 

THE    LOUISIANIANS'    SPIRIT. 

A  rumor  prevailed  that  General  Lyon  had  issued  from  Springfield 
and  was  about  to  surround  us.  One  of  the  boys  suggested  that  "  it 
didn't  make  much  difference  to  the  Louisiana  boys  which  side  he 
attacked  them  on,  as  they  were  so  far  from  home  that  all  points  of 
the  compass  seemed  alike  to  them,  and  if  Lyon  wanted  to  attack 
us  in  the  rear,  and  he  were  McCulloch,  he  would  give  him  a  pass 
through  his  camp  and  tJtcn  lick  him  like  hell.'1'1 


66  A   SOUTHERN   EECORD. 


THE   MIDNIGHT   MARCH. 

As  the  men,  in  breathless  expectation,  cautiously  moved  forward, 
not  the  sound  of  a  voice,  the  rattle  of  a  canteen  or  sabre  to  be 
heard,  the  midnight  silence  alone  was  disturbed  by  the  heavy  mon 
otonous  tramp,  tramp  of  the  men,  and  the  dull  rumbling  of  the 
artillery  carriages.  As  the  army  denied  through  gorge  after  gorge, 
the  anxiety  became  painfully  intense.  At  one  time,  while  the 
column  had  halted,  the  colonel's  orderly  (Prud.  Hyains)  struck  a 
match  for  the  purpose  of  lighting  a  segar,  and  as  the  light  flashed 
out  in  the  darkness,  a  murmur  ran  through  the  line :  "  There  it 
comes  at  last ;"  u  Now  we  have  got  it ;"  and  many  expected  to 
hear  the  roar  of  a  gun.  The  stern  command  of  an  officer  to  "  put 
out  that  match,"  was  the  only  result,  and  the  orderly  missed  his 
smoke  that  time. 

TREACHERY    OF   THE   ENEMY. 

So  close  and  desperate  was  the  first  engagement  of  the  regiment 
in  their  fight  with  the  enemy  that  every  command  and  word  spoken 
could  be  distinctly  heard  even  amid  the  uproar  of  the  fight.  When 
the  head  of  the  regiment  approached  close  to  the  fence  of  the  corn 
field,  Drum-Major  Patterson  was  in  the  immediate  front  of  the 
column.  A  United  States  regular  got  up  on  the  fence,  in  plain  view, 
and  seeing  our  advance,  cried  out,  "  We  are  friends."  His  answer 
was  the  report  of  Patterson's  rifle,  who  simply  remarked,  as  he  fired, 
u  No  you  don't,  I  have  seen  you  before."  R.  Patterson  originally 
belonged  to  this  regiment,  which  he  early  left,  to  unite  his  fortunes 
with  those  of  the  South.  It  was  the  first  shot  and  death  of  the 
battle. 

A  sergeant  of  one  of  the  companies  was  standing  in  a  small  by 
road  intersecting  the  fence,  a  short  distance  to  the  left,  when  two 
of  the  enemy  climbed  upon  it  in  full  view.  Raising  his  rifle  to  fire, 
one  of  them  waved  his  hand  and  quietly  said,  "  Don't  shoot,  we  are 
friends."  At  that  moment  Lieutenant  Irvin,  of  Company  K,  stepped 
into  the  road.  Some  one  ordered  the  sergeant  out  of  the  road,  in 
the  words :  "  Get  out  of  that  you  damned  fool,  you'll  be  killed." 
As  he  did  so,  one  of  the  enemy  fired  at  Lieutenant  Irvin,  seriously 
wounding  him  in  the  throat,  remarking,  as  he  saw  the  Lieutenant 
double  up  under  the  pain,  ;'  I  got  that  son  of  a " 

The  heroism  of  many  of  the  wounded  was  astonishing,  who 
cheered  the  men  on  as  they  laid  on  the  ground,  shouting  for  Jeff 
Davis,  regardless  of  their  agony. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  67 

WAITMAN'S  TWO  GUN  BATTERY. 

This  battery  was  as  famed  as  it  was  singular  and  grotesque  in  its 
appointments.  One  gun  was  a  small  iron  piece,  mounted  on  wagon- 
wheels  and  a  roughly-constructed  carriage  ;  the  other  was  a  huge 
long  twelve-pound  howitzer,  known  as  "  Sacramento,"  a  Mexican 
gun,  composed  of  brass  and  silver,  the  ringing  boom  of  whose  voice 
was  peculiar,  and  heard  above  all  other  sounds.  This  battery  had 
taken  a  position  within  point-blank  range  of  Siegel's  guns,  with  the 
disadvantage  of  being  in  the  valley.  As  the  Louisiana  Regiment 
passed  this  battery  to  charge  the  enemy's  guns,  only  a  single  man 
stood  near  it,  his  head  bandaged  with  a  red  handkerchief,  his  face 
and  person  blackened  with  powder  and  smeared  with  blood.  One 
gun  was  upset,  the  ammunition-wagon  scattered  in  pieces  around, 
the  horses  lying  around  dead,  horribly  mangled,  the  ground  trodden 
down  in  many  places,  and,  in  others,  torn  up  by  the  plunging  shot, 
actually  crimson  with  gore.  As  the  regiment  passed  the  spot,  the 
man  exclaimed,  "  Give  it  to  them  boys.  They  have  ruined  our 
battery,  killed  our  men  and  our  ammunition  is  all  gone."  He  looked 
the  impersonification  of  one  of  war's  grim  demons.  That  scene  will 
not  soon  be  forgotten  by  those  who  witnessed  it. 

A   DEATH  NOT   REPORTED   IN   OFFICIAL   REPORTS. 

When  the  army  first  left  Camp  Jackson  on  the  march,  a  large 
dark-and-tan-colored  dog  attached  himself  to  the  regiment,  and 
soon  became  a  universal  pet.  When  on  the  march  he  invariably 
trotted  along  the  road  a  few  paces  in  advance  of  the  van,  and  hence 
earned  the  sobriquet  of  "  Sergeant."  He  seldom  left  his  position 
in  front  of  the  moving  column,  when  the  regiment  was  ordered 
out  of  camp.  On  the  morning  of  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills,  "  Ser 
geant"  was  on  hand  to  participate  in  the  events  of  the  day.  Amid 
the  storm  of  leaden  bullets  and  the  fierce  rattle  of  musketry  in  the 
first  close,  deadly  and  obstinate  engagement  with  the  enemy,  "  Ser 
geant"  charged  through  the  bushes,  leaping  over  logs  and  obstacles, 
barking  furiously  all  the  time.  He  seemed  to  enjoy  the  fight  ex 
ceedingly.  As  he  passed  down  the  line  his  sharp  voice  attracted 
the  attention  of  some  of  the  men,  one  of  whom  shouted  to  him, 

"  Get  out  of  that   Sergeant,  you  d d  fool,  you'll  be  killed." 

The  words  were  scarcely  uttered  ere  a  fatal  ball  struck  him, 
and,  with  a  long  piteous  whine,  he  rolled  on  the  ground  never  to 
rise.  The  intelligent  animal  fell  among  the  prostrate  forms  of  many 
who  had  fed  and  caressed  him,  the  victim  of  his  own  fearless 
temerity. 


68  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

GENERAL  PRICE'S  REPORT. 

HEADQUARTERS  MISSOURI  STATE  GUARD,) 
Springfield,  August  12,  1861.          \ 

"  To  Ms  Excellency  CLAIBORNE  F.  JACKSON,    Governor  of  the  State 

of  Missouri : 

I  have  the  honor  to  submit  to  your  Excellency  the  following  report 
of  the  operations  of  the  army  under  my  command,  at  and  imme 
diately  preceding  the  battle  of  Springfield. 

I  began  to  move  my  command  from  its  encampment  on  Cowskin 
Prairie,  in  McDonald  County,  on  the  25th  of  July,  towards  Cassville, 
in  Barry  County,  at  which  place  it  had  been  agreed  between  Generals 
McCulloch,  Pearce  and  myself,  that  our  respective  forces,  together 
with  those  of  Brigadier-General  McBride  should  be  concentrated 
preparatory  to  a  forward  movement.  We  reached  Cassville  on  Sun 
day,  the  28th  of  July,  and  on  the  next  day  effected  a  junction  with 
the  armies  of  Generals  McCulloch  and  Pearce. 

The  combined  armies  were  then  put  under  marching  orders,  and 
the  First  Division,  General  McCulloch  commanding,  left  Cassville  on 
the  1st  of  July,  upon  the  road  to  this  city.  The  Second  Division, 
under  General  Pearce  of  Arkansas,  left  on  the  1st  day  of  August ; 
and  the  Third  Division,  Brigadier-General  Steen  of  this  State  com 
manding,  left  on  the  2d  day  of  August.  I  went  forward  with  the 
Second  Division,  which  embraced  the  greater  portion  of  my  infantry, 
and  encamped  with  it  some  twelve  miles  northwest  of  Cassville. 
The  next  morning  a  messenger  from  General  McCulloch  informed  me 
that  he  had  reason  to  believe  that  the  enemy  were  in  force  on  the 
road  to  Springfield,  and  that  he  should  remain  at  his  then  encamp 
ment  on  Crane  Creek  until  the  Second  and  Third  Divisions  of  the 
army  had  come  up.  The  Second  Division  consequently  moved  for 
ward  to  Crane  Creek,  and  I  ordered  the  Third  Division  to  a  position 
within  three  miles  of  the  same  place. 

The  advance  guard  of  the  army,  consisting  of  six  companies  of 
mounted  Missourians,  under  command  of  Brigadier-General  Rains 
as  at  that  time,  (Friday,  August  3d,)  encamped  on  the  Springfield 
road  about  five  miles  beyond  Crane  Creek.  About  9  o'clock  A.  M., 
of  that  day,  General  Rains'  pickets  reported  to  him  that  they  had 
been  driven  in  by  the  enemy's  advance-guard,  and  that  officer  imme 
diately  led  forward  his  whole  force,  amounting  to  nearly  400  men, 
until  he  found  the  enemy  in  position,  some  three  miles  on  the  road. 
He  sent  back  at  once  to  General  McCulloch  for  reinforcements,  and 
Colonel  Mclntosh,  C.  S.  A.,  was  sent  forward  with  150  men ;  but 


THIRD  LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  69 

a  reconnoissance  of  the  ground  having  satisfied  the  latter  that  the 
enemy  did  not  have  more  than  150  men  on  the  ground,  he  withdrew 
his  men  and  returned  to  Crane  Creek.  General  Rains  soon  discovered, 
however,  that  he  was  in  presence  of  the  main  body  of  the  enemy, 
numbering,  according  to  his  estimate,  more  than  5,000  men,  with 
eight  pieces  of  artillery,  and  supported  by  a  considerable  body  of 
cavalry.  A  severe  skirmish  ensued,  which  lasted  several  hours,  until 
the  enemy  opened  their  batteries  and  compelled  our  troops  to  retire. 
In  this  engagement  the  greater  portion  of  General  Rains'  command, 
and  especially  that  part  which  acted  as  infantry,  behaved  with  great 
gallantry,  as  the  result  demonstrates ;  for  our  loss  was  only  one 
killed  (Lieutenant  Northcut)  and  five  wounded,  while  five  of  the 
enemy's  dead  were  buried  on  the  field,  and  a  large  number  are  known 
to  have  been  wounded. 

Our  whole  forces  were  concentrated  the  next  day  near  Crane  Creek, 
and  during  the  same  night  the  Texan  Regiment,  under  Colonel  Greer, 
came  up  within  a  few  miles  of  the  same  place. 

Reasons  which  will  be  hereafter  assigned,  induced  me,  on  Sunday, 
the  4th  inst.,  to  put  the  Missouri  forces,  under  the  direction,  for  the 
time  being,  of  General  McCulloch,  who  accordingly  assumed  the 
command- in-chief  of  the  combined  armies.  A  little  after  midnight 
we  took  up  the  line  of  march,  leaving  our  baggage  trains,  and 
expecting  to  find  the  enemy  near  the  scene  of  the  late  skirmish,  but 
we  found,  as  we  advanced,  that  they  were  retreating  rapidly  towards 
Springfield.  We  followed  them  hastily  about  seventeen  miles,  to  a 
place  known  as  Moody's  Spring,  where  we  were  compelled  to  halt 
our  forces,  who  were  already  nearly  exhausted  by  the  intense  heat  of 
the  weather,  and  the  dustiness  of  the  roads. 

Early  the  next  morning  we  moved  forward  to  Wilson's  Creek,  ten 
miles  southwest  of  Springfield,  where  we  encamped.  Our  forces 
were  here  put  in  readiness  to  meet  the  enemy,  who  were  posted  at 
Springfield  to  the  number  of  about  10,000.  It  was  finally  decided 
to  march  against  them ;  and  on  Friday  afternoon  orders  were  issued 
to  march  in  four  separate  columns,  at  9  o'clock  that  night,  so  as  to 
surround  the  city  and  begin  a  simultaneous  attack  at  daybreak.  The 
darkness  of  the  night  and  a  threatened  storm  caused  General  McCul 
loch,  just  as  the  army  was  about  to  march,  to  countermand  this  order, 
and  to  direct  that  the  troops  should  hold  themselves  in  readiness  to 
move  whenever  ordered.  Our  men  were  consequently  kept  under 
arms  till  towards  daybreak,  expecting  momentarily  an  order  to  march. 
The  morning  of  Saturday,  August  10,  found  them  still  encamped  at 
Wilson's  Creek,  fatigued  by  a  night's  watching  and  loss  of  rest. 


70  A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

About  6  o'clock  I  received  a  messenger  from  General  Rains  that 
the  enemy  were  advancing  in  great  force  from  the  direction  of 
Springfield,  and  were  already  within  200  or  300  yards  of  the  position, 
where  he  was  encamped  with  the  Second  Brigade  of  his  Division, 
consisting  of  about  1,200  mounted  men  under  Colonel  Cawthorn.  A 
second  messenger  came  immediately  afterwards  from  General  Rains 
to  announce  that  the  main  body  of  the  enemy  was  upon  him,  but 
that  he  would  endeavor  to  hold  them  in  check  until  he  could  receive 
reinforcements.  General  McCulloch  was  with  me  when  these  mes 
sengers  came,  and  left  at  once  for  his  own  headquarters  to  make  the 
necessary  disposition  of  our  forces. 

I  rode  forward  instantly  towards  General  Rains'  position,  at  the 
same  time  ordering  Generals  Slack,  McBride,  Clark  and  Parsons  to 
move  their  infantry  and  artillery  rapidly  forward.  I  had  ridden  but 
a  few  hundred  yards  when  I  came  suddenly  upon  the  main  body  of 
the  enemy,  commanded  by  General  Lyon  in  person.  The  infantry 
and  artillery  which  I  had  ordered  to  follow  me  came  up  immediately 
to  the  number  of  2,036  men,  and  engaged  the  enemy.  A  severe  and 
bloody  conflict  ensued,  my  officers  and  men  behaving  with  the 
greatest  bravery,  and,  with  the-  assistance  of  a  portion  of  the  Con 
federate  forces,  successfully  holding  the  enemy  in  check.  Meanwhile, 
and  almost  simultaneously  with  the  opening  of  the  enemy's  batteries 
in  this  quarter,  a  heavy  cannonading  was  opened  upon  the  rear  of 
our  position,  where  a  large  body  of  the  enemy  under  Colonel  Siegel 
had  taken  position  in  close  proximity  to  Colonel  Churchill's  Regi 
ment,  Colonel  Greer's  Texan  Rangers  and  679  mounted  Missourians, 
under  command  of  Colonel  Brown  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  Major. 

The  action  now  became  general,  and  was  conducted  with  the 
greatest  gallantry  and  vigor  on  both  sides  for  more  than  five  hours, 
when  the  enemy  retreated  in  great  confusion,  leaving  their  Com- 
mander-in-Chief,  General  Lyon,  dead  upon  the  battle  field,  over  500 
killed,  and  a  great  number  wounded. 

The  forces  under  my  command  have  possession  of  three  twelve- 
pounder  howitzers,  two  brass  six-pounders,  and  a  great  quantity  of 
small  arms  and  ammunition,  taken  from  the  enemy ;  also,  the  stand 
ard  of  Siegel's  Regiment,  captured  by  Captain  Staples.  They  have 
also  a  large  number  of  prisoners. 

The  brilliant  victory  thus  achieved  upon  this  hard  fought  field 
was  won  only  by  the  most  determined  bravery  and  distinguished 
gallantry  of  the  combined  armies,  which  fought  nobly  side  by  side 
in  defence  of  their  common  rights  and  liberties,  with  as  much 
courage  and  constancy  as  were  ever  exhibited  upon  any  battle  field. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  71 

Where  all  behaved  so  well,  it  is  invidious  to  make  any  distinction, 
but  I  cannot  refrain  from  expressing  my  sense  of  the  splendid  services 
rendered,-  under  my  own  eyes,  by  the  Arkansas  Infantry,  under 
General  Pearce,  the  Louisiana  Regiment  of  Colonel  Hebert  and 
Colonel  Churchill's  Regiment  of  Mounted  Riflemen.  These  gallant 
officers  and  their  brave  soldiers  won  upon  that  day  the  lasting  grati 
tude  of  every  true  Missouri  an. 

This  great  victory  was  dearly  bought  by  the  blood  of  many  a 
skillful  officer  and  brave  man.  Others  will  report  the  losses  sustained 
by  the  Confederate  forces ;  I  shall  willingly  confine  myself  to  the 
losses  within  my  own  army. 

Among  those  who  fell  mortally  wounded  upon  the  battle  field, 
none  deserves  a  dearer  place  in  the  memory  of  Missourians  than 
Richard  Hanson  Weightman,  Colonel  com  man  ding  the  First  Brigade 
of  the  Second  Division  of  the  army.  Taking  up  arms  at  the  very- 
beginning  of  this  unhappy  contest,  he  had  already  done  distinguished 
services  at  the  battle  of  Rock  Creek,  where  he  commanded  the  State 
forces  after  the  death  of  the  lamented  Holloway ;  and  at  Carthage, 
where  he  won  unfading  laurels  by  the  display  of  extraordinary  cool 
ness,  courage  and  skill.  He  fell  at  the  head  of  his  brigade,  wounded 
in  three  places,  and  died  just  as  the  victorious  shouts  of  our  army 
began  to  rise  upon  the  air. 

Here,  too,  died,  in  the  discharge  of  his  duty,  Colonel  Benjamin 
Brown  of  Ray  County,  President  of  the  Senate,  a  good  man  and  true. 

Brigadier-General  Slack's  Division  suffered  severely.  He  himself 
fell,  dangerously  wounded,  at  the  head  of  his  column.  Of  his  regi 
ment  of  infantry,  under  Colonel  John  T.  Hughes,  consisting  of  about 
650  men,  thirty-six  were  killed,  seventy-six  wounded,  many  of  them 
mortally,  and  thirty  are  missing.  Among  the  killed  were  C.  H.  Bennet 
Adjutant  of  the  regiment,  Captain  Blackwell  and  Lieutenant  Hughes. 
Colonel  Rives'  squadron  of  cavalry,  (dismounted)  numbering  some 
234  men,  lost  four  killed  and  eight  wounded.  Among  the  former 
were  Lieutenant-Colonel  Austin  and  Captain  Engart. 

Brigadier-General  Clark  was  also  wounded.  His  infantry  (290 
men)  lost,  in  killed  seventeen,  and  wounded  71.  Colonel  Burbridge 
was  severely  wounded.  Captains  Farris  and  Halleck  and  Lieutenant 
Haskins  were  killed.  General  Clark's  cavalry,  together  with  the 
Windsor  Guards,  were  under  the  command  of  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Major,  who  did  good  service.  They  lost  six  killed  and  five  wounded. 

Brigadier-General  McBride's  Division  (605  men)  lost  twenty-two 

killed,  sixty-seven  severely  wounded,  and  fifty-seven  slightly  wound- 

i  ed.     Colonel  Foster  and  Captains  Nichols,  Dougherty,  Armstrong 


72  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

and  Mings  were  wounded  while  gallantly  leading  their  respective 
commands. 

General  Parsons'  Brigade,  256  infantry  and  artillery,  under  com 
mand  respectively  of  Colonel  Kelly  and  Captain  Guibor,  and  406 
cavalry,  Colonel  Brown,  lost,  the  artillery,  three  killed  and  seven 
wounded ;  the  infantry,  nine  killed  and  thirty-eight  wounded ;  the  cav 
alry,  three  killed  and  two  wounded.  Colonel  Kelly  was  wounded  in  the 
hand.  Captain  Coleman  was  mortally  wounded,  and  has  since  died. 

General  Rains'  Division  was  composed  of  two  brigades — the  first, 
under  Colonel  Weightman,  embracing  infantry  and  artillery,  1,806 
strong,  lost,  not  only  their  commander,  but  thirty-four  others  killed 
and  111  wounded.  The  Second  Brigade,  mounted  men,  Colonel 
Cawthorn  commanding,  about  1,200  men,  lost  twenty-one  killed 
and  seventy-five  wounded.  Colonel  Cawthorn  was  himself  wounded. 
Major  Charles  Rogers,  of  St.  Louis,  Adjutant  of  the  brigade,  was 
mortally  wounded,  and  died  the  day  after  the  battle.  He  was  a 
gallant  officer,  at  all  times  vigilant  and  attentive  to  his  duties,  and 
fearless  upon  the  field  of  battle. 

Your  Excellency  will  perceive  that  our  State  forces  consisted  of 
only  5,221  officers  and  men ;  that  of  these  no  less  than  158  died  upon 
the  field,  while  517  were  wounded.  These  facts  attest  more  power 
fully  than  any  words  can,  the  severity  of  the  conflict,  and  the  daunt 
less  courage  of  our  brave  soldiers. 

It  is  also  my  painful  duty  to  announce  the  death  of  one  of  my 
aids,  Lieutenant-Colonel  George  W.  Allen,  of  Saline  County.  He 
was  shot  down  while  communicating  an  order,  and  we  left  him 
buried  on  the  field.  I  have  appointed  to  the  position  thus  sadly 
vacated,  Captain  James  T.  Cearnal,  in  recognition  of  his  gallant  con 
duct  and  valuable  services  throughout  the  battle,  as  a  Volunteer  Aid. 
Another  of  my  staff,  Colonel  Horace  H.  Brand,  was  made  prisoner 
by  the  enemy,  but  has  since  been  released. 

My  thanks  are  due  to  three  of  your  staff,  Colonel  William  M. 
Cooke,  Colonel  Richard  Gaines,  and  Colonel  Thomas  L.  Snead,  for 
services  which  they  rendered  me  as  Volunteer  Aids,  and  also  to  my 
Aid-de-Camp,  Colonel  A.  W.  Jones. 

In  conclusion,  I  beg  leave  to  say  to  your  Excellency,  that  the  army 
under  my  command,  both  officers  and  men,  did  their  duty  nobly  as 
became  men  fighting  in  defence  of  their  homes  and  their  honor,  and 
that  they  deserve  well  of  the  State. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  with  the  greatest  respect, 

Your  Excellency's  obedient  servant,         STERLING  PRICE. 

M. 'cijor- General,  Commanding  Missouri  State  Guard. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  73 

BEN  M'CUI,LOCII'S  REPORT. 

"  HEADQUARTERS  McCuLLocn's  BRIGADE,  ) 
"  Camp  Weiglitman,  near  Springfield^  J/o.,  Aug.  12,  1861.  \ 

"Brig.- Gen.  J.  Cooper,  Atljt-Gen,,  C.  8.  A. 

GENERAL — I  have  the  honor  to  make  the  following  official  report 
of  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills  on  the  10th  inst.  Having  taken  position 
about  ten  miles  from  Springfield,  I  endeavored  to  gain  the  necessary 
information  of  the  strength  and  position  of  the  enemy  stationed  in 
and  about  the  town.  The  information  was  very  conflicting  and  un 
satisfactory.  I,  however,  made  up  my  mind  to  attack  the  enemy  in 
their  position,  and  issued  orders  on  the  9th  inst.  to  my  force  to  start 
at  9  o'clock  at  night,  to  attack  at  four  different  points  at  daylight. 
A  few  days  before,  Gen.  Price,  in  command  of  the  Missouri  forces, 
turned  over  his  command  to  me,  and  I  assumed  command  of  the  en 
tire  force,  comprising  my  own  brigade,  the  brigade  of  Arkansas  State 
forces  under  Gen.  Pearce,  and  Gen.  Price's  command  of  Missouri ans. 
My  effective  force  was  5,300  infantry,  fifteen  pieces  of  artillery,  and 
6,000  horsemen  armed  with  flint-lock  muskets,  rifles,  and  shot-guns. 
There  were  other  horsemen  with  the  army  who  were  entirely  unarmed, 
and  instead  of  being  a  help,  were  continually  in  the  way.  When 
the  time  arrived  for  the  night  march,  it  began  to  rain  slightly,  and 
fearing,  from  the  want  of  cartridge-boxes,  that  my  ammunition  would 
be  ruined,  I  ordered  the  movement  to  be  stopped,  hoping  to  move 
the  next  morning.  My  men  had  but  twenty-five  rounds  of  cartridges 
apiece,  and  there  was  no  more  to  be  had.  While  still  hesitating  in 
the  morning,  the  enemy  was  reported  advancing,  and  I  made  arrange 
ments  to  meet  him.  The  attack  was  made  simultaneously  at  half- 
past  5  A.  M.  on  our  right  and  left  flanks,  and  the  enemy  had  gained 
the  positions  they  desired. 

Gen.  Lyon  attacked  us  on  our  left,  and  Gen.  Siegel  on  our  right  and 
rear.  From  these  points  batteries  opened  on  us.  My  command  was 
soon  ready.  The  Missourians,  under  Gens.  Slack,  Clark,  McBride, 
Parsons,  and  Rains,  were  nearest  to  the  position  taken  by  Gen.  Lyon 
with  his  main  force ;  they  were  instantly  turned  to  the  left,  and 
opened  the  battle  with  an  incessant  fire  of  small-arsis.  Woodruff 
opposed  his  battery  to  the  battery  of  the  enemy  under  Capt.  Totten, 
and  a  constant  cannonading  was  kept  up  between  these  batteries 
during  the  engagement.  Hebert's  regiment  of  Louisiana  Volunteers 
and  Mclntosh's  regiment  of  Arkansas  Mounted  Riflemen  were  or 
dered  to  the  front,  and  after  passing  the  battery  (Totten's),  turned 
to  the  left  and  soon  engaged  the  enemy  with  the  regiments  deployed. 
4 


74  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Col.  Mclntosh  dismounted  his  regiment,  and  the  two  marched  up 
abreast  to  a  fence  around  a  large  corn-field,  where  they  met  the  left 
of  the  enemy  already  posted.  A  terrible  conflict  of  small-arms  took 
place  here.  The  opposing  force  was  a  body  of  regular  United  States 
Infantry,  commanded  by  Capts.  Plummer  and  Gilbert. 

Notwithstanding  the  galling  fire  poured  on  these  two  regiments, 
they  leaped  over  the  fence,  and  gallantly  led  by  their  colonels,  drove 
the  enemy  before  them  back  upon  the  main  body.  During  this  time 
the  Missourians  under  Gen.  Price  were  nobly  attempting  to  sustain 
themselves  in  the  centre,  and  were  hotly  engaged  on  the  sides  of  the 
heights  upon  which  the  enemy  were  posted.  Far  on  the  right  Siegel 
had  opened  his  battery  upon  Churchill's  and  Greer's  regiments,  and 
had  gradually  made  his  way  to  the  Springfield  road,  upon  each  side 
of  which  the  army  was  encamped,  and  in  a  prominent  position  he 
established  his  battery.  I  at  once  took  two  companies  of  the  Louis 
iana  regiment  who  were  nearest  me  and  marched  them  rapidly  from 
the  front  and  right  to  the  rear,  with  order  to  Col.  Mclntosh  to  bring 
up  the  rest.  When  we  arrived  near  the  enemy's  battery,  we  found 
that  Reid's  battery  had  opened  upon  it,  and  it  was  already  in  con 
fusion.  Advantage  was  taken  of  it,  and  soon  the  Louisianians  were 
gallantly  charging  among  the  guns  and  swept  the  cannoneers  away. 
Five  guns  were  here  taken,and  Siegel's  command,  completely 'routed, 
were  in  rapid  retreat  with  a  single  gun,  followed  by  some  companies 
of  the  Texan  regiment  and  a  portion  of  Col.  Major's  Missouri  cavalry. 
In  the  pursuit  many  of  the  enemy  were  killed  and  taken  prisoners, 
and  their  last  gun  captured. 

Having  cleared  our  right  and  rear,  it  was  necessary  to  turn  all  our 
attention  to  the  centre,  under  Gen.  Lyon,  who  was  pressing  upon  the 
Missourians,  having  driven  them  back.  To  this  point  Mclntosh's 
regiment,  under  Lieut.-Col.  Embry,  and  Churchill's  regiment  on  foot, 
and  Gratiot's  regiment,  and  McRae's  battalion,  were  sent  to  their 
aid. 

The  terrible  fire  of  musketry  was  now  kept  up  along  the  whole 
side  and  top  of  the  hill  upon  which  the  enemy  was  posted.  Masses 
of  infantry  fell  back  and  again  rushed  forward.  The  summit  of  the 
hill  was  covered  with  the  dead  and  wounded — both  sides  were  fight 
ing  with  desperation  for  the  day.  Carroll's  and  Greer's  regiments, 
led  gallantly  by  Capt.  Bradfute,  charged  the  battery,  but  the  whole 
strength  of  the  enemy  was  immediately  in  the  rear,  and  a  deadly  fire 
was  opened  upon  them.  At  this  critical  period,  when  the  fortune  of 
the  day  seemed  to  be  at  the  turning-point,  two  regiments  of  General 
Pearce's  brigade  were  ordered  to  march  from  their  position  (as  re- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  75 

serves)  to  support  the  centre.  The  order  was  obeyed  with  alacrity, 
and  Gen.  Pearce  gallantly  rushed  with  his  brigade  to  the  rescue. 
Reid's  battery  was  also  ordered  to  move  forward,  and  the  Louisiana 
regiment  was  again  called  into  action  on  the  left  of  it.  The  battle 
then  became  general,  and  probably  no  two  opposing  forces  ever  fought 
with  greater  desperation ;  inch  by  inch  the  enemy  gave  way  and 
were  driven  from  their  position.  Totten's  battery  fell  back;  Mis- 
sourians,  Arkansians,  Louisianians,  and  Texans  pushed  forward.  The 
incessant  roll  of  musketry  was  deafening,  and  the  balls  fell  as  thick 
as  hail-stones ;  but  still  our  gallant  Southerners  pushed  onward  and 
with  one  wild  yell  broke  upon  the  enemy,  pushing  them  back  and 
strewing  the  ground  with  their  dead.  Nothing  could  withstand  the 
impetuosity  of  our  final  charge ;  the  enemy  fled,  and  could  not  be 
rallied  again,  and  they  were  last  seen  at  12  M.,  retreating  among  the 
hills  in  the  distance.  Thus  ended  the  battle.  It  lasted  six  hours 
and  a  half. 

The  force  of  the  enemy,  between  nine  and  ten  thousand,  was  com 
posed  of  well-disciplined  troops,  well  armed,  and  a  large  part  of 
them  belonging  to  the  old  urmy  of  the  United  States. 

With  every  advantage  on  their  side,  they  have  met  with  a  signal 
repulse.  The  loss  of  the  enemy  is  at  least  800  killed,  1,000  wounded 
and  300  prisoners.  We  captured  six  pieces  of  artillery,  and  several 
hundred  stand  of  small-arms,  and  several  of  their  standards. 

Maj.-Gen.  Lyon,  chief  in  command,  was  killed.  Many  of  the  offi 
cers  high  in  rank  were  wounded.  Our  loss  was  also  severe,  and  we 
mourn  the  death  of  many  a  gallant  officer  and  soldier.  Our  killed 
amount  to  265 ;  800  wounded,  and  30  missing.  Col.  Weightman 
fell  at  the  head  of  his  brigade  of  Missourians,  while  gallantly  charg 
ing  upon  the  enemy.  His  place  cannot  be  easily  filled.  Generals 
Slack  and  Clark,  of  Missouri,  were  severely  wounded,  Gen.  Price 
slightly.  Capt.  Hinson,  of  the  Louisiana  regiment,  Capt.  McAlex- 
ander,  of  Churchill's  regiment,  Capts.  Bell  and  Brown,  of  Pearce's 
brigade,  Lieuts.  Walton  and  Weaver — all  fell  while  nobly  and  gal 
lantly  doing  their  duty.  Col.  Mclntosh  was  slightly  wounded  by  a 
grape-shot,  while  charging  with  the  Louisiana  regiment ;  Lieut  -Col. 
Neal,  Maj.  H.  Ward,  Capts.  King,  Pearsons,  Gibbs,  Ramsaur,  Porter, 
Lieuts.  Dawson,  Chambers,  Johnson,  King,  Adams,  Hardista,  Mclvor, 
and  Saddler  were  wounded  while  at  the  head  of  their  companies. 

Where  all  were  doing  their  duty  so  gallantly  it  is  almost  unfair  to 
discriminate.  I  must,  however,  bring  to  your  notice  the  gallant  con 
duct  of  the  Missouri  Generals  McBride,  Parsons,  Clark,  Black  and  their 
officers.  To  Gen. -Price  I  am  under  many  obligations  for  assistance  on 


76  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

the  battle-field.  He  was  at  the  head  of  his  force  leading  them  on, 
and  sustaining  them  by  his  gallant  bearing.  Gen.  Pearce,  with  his  Ar 
kansas  brigade  (Gratiot's,  Walker's,  and  Dockery's  regiments  of  in 
fantry),  came  gallantly  to  the  rescue  when  sent  for ;  leading  his  men 
into  the  thickest  of  the  fight,  he  contributed  much  to  the  success  of 
the  day.  The  commanders  of  regiments  of  my  own  brigade,  Cols. 
Churchill,  Greer,  Embry,  Mclntosh,  Hebert,  and  McEae,  led  their 
different  regiments  into  action  with  great  coolness  and  bravery,  and 
were  always  in  front  of  their  men,  cheering  them  on.  Woodruff  and 
Reid  managed  their  batteries  with  great  ability,  and  did  much  exe 
cution.  For  those  officers  and  men  who  were  particularly  conspicu 
ous,  I  will  refer  the  Department  to  the  reports  of  the  different  com 
manders. 

To  rny  personal  staff  I  am  much  indebted  for  the  coolness  and  ra 
pidity  with  which  they  carried  orders  about  the  field,  and  would 
call  particular  attention  to  my  volunteer  aids,  Capt.  Bledsoe,  Messrs. 
F.  C.  Armstrong,  Ben  Johnson  (whose  horse  was  killed  under  him), 
Hamilton  Pike,  and  Major  King.  To  Maj.  Montgomery,  Quarter 
master,  I  am  also  indebted  for  much  service  as  an  aid  during  the 
battle ;  he  was  of  much  use  to  me.  To  Col.  Mclutosh,  at  one  time 
at  the  head  of  his  regiment,  and  at  other  times  in  his  capacity  as 
Adjutant- General,  I  cannot  give  too  much  praise.  Wherever  the 
balls  flew  he  was  gallantly  leading  different  regiments  into  action, 
and  his  presence  gave  confidence  everywhere. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  sir, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

BEN  McCuLLocii, 
Brig,- Gen.  Comman ding. 


CHAPTER    VIII. 

THE  day  after  the  battle  the  troops  marched  three  miles  nearer 
Springfield,  ia  order  to  escape  from  the  terrible  effluvia  occasioned 
by  the  festering  bodies  lying  unburied  on  the  battle-field,  camping 
near  Wilson's  Springs,  whose  clear,  cool  water  escaped  in  abundant 
profusion  from  a  large  chasm  in  the  rocks.  This  encampment  was 
near  an  open,  rolling  prairie,  and  six  miles  from  Springfield.  The 
Missourians  proceeded  to  Springfield,  taking  possession  of  the  place. 
The  night  of  the  llth  a  severe  thunder-storm  arose,  and  the  next 
day  it  cleared  off  cool.  Here  General  McCulloch  issued  the  follow 
ing  congratulatory  order : 

"  HEADQUARTERS,  CAMP  NEAR  SPRINGFIELD,  Mo. ) 
General  Orders,  No.  27,  August  12,  1861.         \ 

"  The  General  commanding  takes  great  pleasure  in  announcing  to 
the  army  under  his  command  the  signal  victory  it  has  just  gained. 

"  Soldiers  of  Louisiana,  of  Arkansas,  of  Missouri  and  of  Texas, 
nobly  have  you  sustained  yourselves.  Shoulder  to  shoulder  you 
have  met  the  enemy.  Your  first  battle  has  been  glorious,  and  your 
General  is  proud  of  you.  The  opposing  force,  composed  mostly  of 
the  old  regular  army  of  the  North,  have  thrown  themselves  upon 
you,  but,  by  great  gallantly  and  determined  courage,  you  have 
entirely  routed  it  with  great  slaughter.  Several  pieces  of  artillery 
and  many  prisoners  are  now  in  your  hands.  The  commander-in- 
chief  of  the  enemy  is  slain  and  many  of  the  general  officers 
wounded.  The  flag  of  the  Confederacy  now  floats  over  Spring 
field,  the  stronghold  of  the  enemy.  The  friends  of  our  cause  who 
have  been  imprisoned  there  are  released.  While  announcing  to  the 
army  the  great  victory,  the  General  hopes  that  the  laurels  you  have 
gained  will  not  be  tarnished  by  a  single  outrage.  The  private  prop 
erty  of  citizens  of  either  party  must  be  respected.  Soldiers  who 
fought  as  you  did  day  before  yesterday  cannot  rob  or  plunder. 

"  By  order.  GENERAL  MCCULLOCH. 

"  JAMES  MC!NTOSII,  Captain  and  Adjutant-  General." 


78  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

In  their  departure  from  McCulloch,  the  Missourians  carried  with 
them  the  battery  taken  by  the  Louisiana  troops,  by  what  authority 
was  not  discovered.  They  claimed  the  honor  of  capturing  the  guns, 
causing  much  exasperation  among  the  men  of  the  regiment.  This 
soon  became  a  subject  of  serious  dissension  between  the  State 
Guards  and  the  Confederate  troops,  being  the  foundation  of  the 
differences,  heart-burnings  and  jealousies  which  existed  afterwards 
and  followed  McCulloch  to  his  death.  The  guns,  however,  were 
finally  returned  stripped  of  almost  everything  movable  about  them. 
Orders  were  issued  to  move  on  the  morning  of  the  IGth  at  6  A.  M. 
The  troops  moved  in  obedience  to  orders,  marching  about  seven 
.miles,  and  encamped  in  a  pleasant  spot  near  some  fine  springs.  The 
weather  kept  clear  and  pleasant.  The  Arkansas  State  troops  here 
left  the  brigade,  having  enlisted  for  only  three  months,  and  being 
unwilling  to  enter  the  Confederate  service.  Thus  the  fruit  of  our 
golden  victory  was  being  thrown  away  at  the  very  moment  when, 
if  properly  seized,  it  would  have  resulted  gloriously  for  the  Southern 
cause.  The  enemy  were  in  full  retreat  toward  St.  Louis,  and  if  a 
unanimity  of  action  had  actuated  all  who  participated  in  the  late 
battle,  and  the  enemy  been  rapidly  followed  into  Missouri,  her  down 
trodden  people  would  have  risen  en  masse  and  thrown  aside  the 
chains  which  bound  them  hand  and  foot.  General  McCulloch  in 
vain  appealed  to  their  patriotism  and  bravery.  Home !  was  the 
only  response.  Thus  the  ruinous  policy  of  organizing  State  troops 
crippled  the  Confederate  cause  and  environed  our  gallant  commander 
with  difficulties,  completely  annulling  the  advantage  which  he  had 
gained,  making  him  a  victor  over  a  foe,  a  leader  without  an  army. 
McCulloch  returned  from  his  fruitless  mission  to  the  Arkansas 
troops  furious  with  anger  at  his  failure.  While  in  this  camp  much 
dissatisfaction  existed  in  the  regiment.  They  were  living  in  the 
open  air  without  blankets,  tents,  or  scarcely  provisions  enough  to 
keep  them  alive,  subject  to  all  the  inclemencies*  of  the  weather. 
Frequent  thunder  storms  arose  to  add  to  and  increase  their  accumu 
lated  miseries.  The  sick-list  began  to  grow  alarmingly  large. 
Wagons  were  sent  out  to  gather  green  corn  to  distribute  as  food 
to  the  men,  oftentimes  three  ears  being  the  day's  rations.  When 
these  wagons  arrived  in  camp,  the  boys  invariably  indulged  freely 
in  the  propensity  for  fun,  so  proverbial  among  soldiers  in  their  hour 
of  sorest  need  and  most  trying  situation.  A  general  outburst  would 
commence;  "Here's  your  corn;"  "Come  up  and  draw  your  oats;" 
"  I  say,  Colonel,  any  fodder  to-day  with  this  corn,"  were  a  few  of 
the  numerous  expressions.  While  encamped  here  we  visited  the 


THIRD    LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  79 

deserted  camp-grounds  of  the  Federal  troops.  It  was  situated 
in  a  broad,  rolling  prairie,  near  a  strip  of  woods,  tlirough  which  ran 
a  small  stream.  Their  bake-ovens  (quite  models  in  their  way),  built 
of  stone  and  mud  and  brush-shelters,  were  scattered  in  all  directions. 
In  a  prominent  position  a  large  smooth  stone  was  planted  firmly  in 
the  ground.  On  its  face  were  traced,  in  quite  artistic  style,  a  pick 
axe,  spade  and  axe  crossed,  interspersed  with  the  words,  "  Pioneer 
Company  A,  Missouri  Volunteers,  July  19,  1861."  Near  by,  on  a 
large  tree,  was  the  inscription :  "  Headquarters  First  Iowa  Regiment, 
Company  A,  Captain  Cummins,  Lyon  commanding."  This  was 
the  regiment  so  terribly  used  up  in  the  fight.  This  regiment  was 
mustered  out  shortly  after  the  battle,  and  the  remnant,  doubtless, 
carried  home  with  them  ample  testimony  to  the  desperate  valor  and 
daring  of  the  "  Secesh,"  as  the  Dutch  called  the  Southerners. 

On  the  24th  August,  Captain  Gilmore,  Sergeant  Kenney  and  Private 
Cole,  of  Company  F,  visited  the  battle-ground.  The  dead  of  the 
enemy  were  strewn  all  over  the  field  unburied.  They  found 
150  of  them.  Dead  horses,  old  clothes,  broken  wagons,  canteens, 
haversacks,  were  strewn  over  the  field.  They  noticed  particularly 
the  hill  that  Woodruff's  battery  had  been  playing  on  (Bloody  Hill). 
Oak  trees  a  foot  in  diameter  were  cut  into  by  the  canon-balls.  More 
dead  men  were  scattered  here  than  at  any  other  point  of  the  field. 
Here  fell  General  Lyon.  Here  the  last  of  the  battle  was  fought. 
Some  of  the  wounded  had  crawled  into  the  shade  of  the  trees  and 
died  there,  while  others  died  in  the  ranks  where  they  fell.  The 
whole  scene  was  a  mournful  picture  of  war's  desolation. 

In  obedience  to  orders,  the  camp  in  Missouri  was  broken  up, 
August  25,  and  McCulloch's  little  army  turned  their  faces  south 
ward.  All  day  long  the  men  marched  in  a  cold,  drenching  rain, 
reaching  camp  only  to  lie  upon  the  wet  ground,  racked  with  pains, 
and  many  with  burning  fever.  The  country  was  beautiful,  being 
an  open,  rolling  prairie  land,  extending,  as  fur  as  the  eye  could  reach, 
in  gentle  undulations.  The  men  had  little  heart,  however,  for  the 
beauties  of  nature.  Some  conception  may  be  formed  of  the  increas 
ing  powers  of  endurance  exhibited  by  the  men  when  it  is  stated  that, 
notwithstanding  the  inclemency  of  the  weather  and  heavy  roads, 
they  marched  fourteen  rniles  in  four  hours,  halting  but  once.  All 
along  the  line  of  march  the  people  turned  out  to  see  the  Louisianians, 
their  name  already  having  spread  far  and  wide  for  their  undaunted 
courage  and  intrepid  valor.  Many  a  smile  on  fair  faces,  and  loving 
glances  from. bright  eyes  greeted  them;  aye,  and  cheering  words 
also,  conclusively  showing  how  beauty  appreciates  valor,  and  that 


80  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

the  fair  thought  the  brave  eminently  deserving  of  their  smiles.  At 
Mount  Vernon,  Mo.,  one  of  our  camping-places,  the  regiment  was 
enthusiastically  greeted  and  honored,  especially  by  the  ladies.  Ah  ! 
the  numerous  kindnesses  shown  by  the  heroic  women  of  the  land 
have  encouraged  them  beyond  the  power  of  expression.  The  regi 
ment  remained  several  days  at  Mount  Vernon,  which  was  principally 
noted  for  its  handsome  ladies,  making  it  quite  an  attraction  for  the 
boys.  A  hospital  was  here  established,  in  which  the  numerous 
sick  men  were  placed.  Little  attention  was  bestowed  upon  them 
save  by  personal  friends,  and  no  proper  food  provided  for  them. 
Placed  in  rows  upon  hard  beds  on  the  floor  of  a  church,  these  brave 
men  slowly  wasted  away  from  that  fell  disease  of  the  soldier, 
typhoid  fever,  finding  peace  at  last  in  death,  to  be  buried  by  sympa 
thizing  comrades,  in  a  distant  State,  away,  far  away,  from  the  dear 
ones  whose  loving  care  might  have  snatched  them  from  the  grave. 
Oh,  the  crying  evils  of  these  wayside  hospitals  !  The  wanton  ne 
glect  and  indifference  shown,  the  wrongs  practiced  upon  sick  soldiers 
all  over  the  land,  will  some  day  meet  with  a  fearful  reckoning. 

One  fair  afternoon  some  ladies  made  a  call  upon  a  prominent 
officer  of  the  regiment,  entering  his  tent  in  all  the  amplitude  of 
crinoline.  One  thought  to  seat  herself  and  have  a  cosy  chat,  but 
hoops  (oh  !  hoops)  upset  the  chair,  and  the  fair  visitant  suddenly 
found  herself  (mirabile  dictii)  on  the  ground.  The  officer  who  had 
been  playing  the  host  most  polite  from  a  front  face,  was  incapaciated 
from  rendering  any  assistance,  a  portion  of  his  apparel  giving  unmis- 
takeablc  evidence  that  he  belonged  to  the  u  Ragged  Brigade."  Here 
was  a  predicament.  A  gallant  Captain,  however,  relieved  both  the 
distressed  lady  and  embarrassed  host  by  offering  immediate  assist 
ance. 

On  the  30th  of  August  the  march  was  once  more  resumed,  much 
to  the  delight  and  satisfaction  of  the  men.  Soldiers  are  proverbial 
for  their  restlessness,  and,  strange  as  it  may  seem,  infinitely  prefer 
the  tedious  and  toilsome  march  to  the  quietude  of  camp  life  for  any 
length  of  time.  The  road  lay  through  a  country  of  alternate  wood 
land  and  prairie.  Some  of  the  landscape  views  were  exquisite  in 
their  groupings  of  wood  and  prairie  land,  with  their  contrasts  of 
dark  lines  and  smooth,  emerald  surfaces.  Marched  twenty-two  miles, 
and  encamped  at  a  small  place  known  as  Sarcoxie.  The  march  was 
over  a  dnsty  road,  and  through  a  country  almost  devoid  of  water. 
The  tired  men  were  glad  when  the  halt  was  ordered.  The  camp  was 
soon  thronged  with  ladies  from  the  surrounding  country,  eager  to 
get  a  look  at  the  Louisianians.  Questions  innumerable  were  pro- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  81 

pounded,  many  of  which  caused  audible  smiles  on  the  part  of  the 
men.  The  cannon  and  shells  attracted  particular  attention,  many 
never  having  seen  such  curiosities  before,  or  heard  the  roar  of  such 
huge  guns.  All  asked  to  have  one  fired  off — a  request  much  easier 
made  than  granted.  Much  to  the  chagrin  of  the  men,  the  request 
was  refused.  Miss  Kate  Wilson,  a  truly  handsome  lassie,  attracted 
marked  attention.  How  many,  we  wonder,  now  remember  her  fair 
face  and  handsome  form,  tastefully  arrayed  in  a  dark  riding  habit, 
as,  seated  on  her  beautiful  pony,  she  distributed  her  sweet  smiles  and 
kind  words  to  the  crowd  of  admirers  who  surrounded  her.  We 
wonder,  too,  whether  she  ever  dreamed  that  her  kind  and  genial 
manner  to  the  soiled,  travel-stained,  yet  noble-hearted  soldiers,  would 
place  her  name  in  history. 

Sunday  morning,  September  1,  1861,  was  a  bright,  beautiful  one, 
a  lovely  harbinger  of  one  of  those  dreamy  days  when  the  soul  drinks 
in  with  intoxicating  pleasure  every  scene  of  beauty.  At  daylight, 
the  men  were  in  line  ready  to  proceed,  Colonel  Hebert  in  command 
of  the  brigade,  General  McCulloch  having  left  him  in  charge  of  the 
army  and  proceeded  to  Bentonville.  We  crossed  in  our  march  a 
broad,  open  prairie,  extending  as  far  as  vision  could  reach,  an  emer 
ald  sea  of  tall,  waving  grass,  thickly  interspersed  with  nature's  wild- 
flowers  in  rich  profusion  of  variegated  colors.  Guns  and  hats  were 
ornamented  with  these  floral  beauties,  which  gave  to  the  troops  quite 
a  holiday  attire,  notwithstanding  their  soiled  and  tattered  uniforms 
and  rough,  bronzed  features.  Camped,  after  a  march  of  fourteen 
miles,  on  Black  or  Shoal  Creek,  two  miles  from  Granby.  This  was  a 
deep  stream  of  cold  water,  in  whose  limpid  depths  the  men  eagerly 
bathed  their  sore  and  wearied  limbs.  The  Lieutenant-Colonel,  S. 
M.  Hyams,  here  played  a  rich  joke  on  Major  Tunnard,  by  spreading 
the  report  that  he  was  General  McCulloch.  While  the  Major  was 
washing  and  dressing  himself,  a  dense  throng  of  men  gathered  about 
his  tent,  much  to  his  discomfiture  and  astonishment,  all  eager  to 
catch  a  glimpse  of  the  supposed  famed  Texan  Ranger.  It  was  some 
time  before  they  were  undeceived.  Colonel  Hyarns  loved  a  good 
joke,  indicative  of  the  genial  spirit  of  the  man,  and  enjoyed  the  fun 
hugely. 

Resuming  the  march,  the  command  passed  through  Granby.  This 
place  is  situated  seven  miles  from  Neosho,  the  county  seat  of  Newton 
County,  with  a  population  of  2,500,  nine-tenths  of  whom  live  in  log 
cabins  and  shanties,  being  employed  mostly  in  mining.  It  is  on  a 
range  of  bare,  desolate,  bleak-looking  hills.  The  miners  are  what 
are  termed  "  floaters,"  and  comprised  of  every  variety  and  class  of 
4* 


82  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

people — Irish,  German.  English,  Scotch  and  u  Yankees."  There  were 
two  smelting  establishments  in  this  town,  which  did  an  extensive 
business.  We  were  informed  that  in  1860  there  was  procured  from 
these  mines  something  like  7,000,000  pounds  of  ore,  out  of  which 
had  been  manufactured  50,000  pigs  of  lead.  The  mines  are  the 
richest  in  the  known  world,  the  Galena  producing  nine-tenths  of 
pure  metal.  Of  course  the  possession  of  these  mines  was  of  the 
utmost  importance  to  the  Confederates,  furnishing  as  they  did  all 
the  "  blue  pills  "  used  by  the  army.  The  inhabitants  enthusiastically 
greeted  the  troops  as  they  passed  through  the  town,  Confederate 
flags  being  unfurled  everywhere.  The  troops  encamped  at  Neosho, 
the  place  of  McCulloch's  first  exploit  with  the  enemy.  It  is  a  place 
of  considerable  size,  situated  in  a  valley  surrounded  by  hills.  The 
march  from  this  town  was  in  the  midst  of  constant  rain,  and  the 
men  of  the  regiment  were  in  a  terrible  condition.  Large  numbers 
were  shoeless,  and  the  uniforms  hung  in  sbreds  and  tatters  about 
their  forms  after  their  arduous  campaign.  On  the  5th  the  regiment 
once  more  reached  Camp  Jackson.  As  the  regiment  crossed  the 
Missouri  line,  and  when  in  sight  of  Camp  Jackson,  they  cheered 
long  and  vociferously.  It  seemed  like  reaching  home  once  more, 
after  having  traveled  over  500  miles,  fought  a  desperate  battle,  and 
endured  untold  hardships  and  sufferings. 


CHAPTER    IX. 

DOUBTLESS  many  will  inquire  why  General  McCulloch  left  Missouri. 
The  reasons  are  obvious  and  forcible.  First,  the  disbanding  of  the 
Arkansas  troops  ;  second,  the  departure  of  the  Missouri  forces  under 
Generals  Rains  and  Price.  Thus,  with  reduced  forces,  insufficient 
supplies  and  clothing,  it  was  deemed  advisable,  nay,  was  absolutely 
necessary,  to  move  to  some  point  where  the  army  could  be  reorgan 
ized,  strengthened  and  rendered  efficient  for  the  fall  campaign.  The 
new  troops  must  be  disciplined  and  drilled,  and  properly  prepared 
fcr  a  soldier's  life. 

Camp  Jackson  was  the  best  location  for  these  purposes.  Another 
cause  for  the  movement  was  the  treatment  received  at  the  hands  of  the 
Missourians,  and  the  disposition  of  many  of  their  generals  to  arrogate 
to  themselves  the  honor  of  the  victory  gained  at  Oak  Hills.  Even  the 
genial,  warm-hearted  Sterling  Price,  the  leader  of  the  Missourians, 
allowed  his  judgment  to  be  warped  by  the  general  prejudice.  In  his 
official  report  he  said:  "I  have  gained  a  great  victory  with  the 
assistance  of  a  few  Confederate  troops."  We  do  not  believe  that 
General  Price  intended  any  disparagement  to  the  Louisiana  or  other 
troops,  for  the  Third  Regiment,  as  has  already  been  shown,  received  an 
appropriate  acknowledgment  from  him  for  their  distinguished  services. 
Yet  such  statements  as  above,  in  official  reports,  raised  a  storm  of 
indignation  among  both  officers  and  men  against  the  Missourians  for 
a  usurpation  of  all  the  glory  of  August  10th.  The  Third  Louisiana 
Regiment  performed  deeds  that  day  which  gave  them  a  name  for 
daring  and  bravery  imperishable  as  history  itself,  endearing  them  to 
the  people  of  Missouri  and  Arkansas  in  ties  cemented  in  blood.  The 
gallant  Missourians  wrho  entered  the  Confederate  service  feel  and 
know  this,  for  they  stood  side  by  side  and  shoulder  to  shoulder  like 
brothers,  in  many  battles  and  campaigns  afterwards.  But  on  this 
topic  more  anon.  Early  in  September  came  information  of  the 
declaration  of  the  Indians  in  favor  of  the  South.  This  nerved  anew 


84  A   SOUTHERN   RECOED. 

the  unflagging  spirit;*  and  unfaltering  energies  of  our  troops.  Four 
months  in  the  Confederate  service  !  Four  months  had  we  been  away 
from  home,  making  long  and  wearisome  marches  over  rough  and 
rocky  roads,  through  valleys,  over  hill-tops,  in  rain  and  sunshine, 
dust  and  mud,  heat  and  cold.  Leaving  tents  behind  to  facilitate 
our  movements,  we  had  encamped  without  shelter,  making  the  damp, 
chilly  ground  our  couch,  and  the  azure  sky  our  only  covering.  Add 
to  this  the  tortures  of  hunger,  want  of  sufficient  apparel,  and  up  to 
tills  period  not  a  cent  of  pay,  all  endured  with  comparatively  little 
murmuring  or  complaining,  and  it  shows  a  spirit  which  nothing 
could  break  or  conquer. 

"  We're  the  sons  of  Bires  that  baffled 

Crowned  and  martyred  tyranny ; 
They  defied  the  field  and  scaffold 

For  their  birthrights — so  have  we." 

"MON  BLONKET." 

Who  does  not  remember  Johnny  Crasson,  of  Co.  K  ?  He  was  a 
Frenchman  of  undoubted  descent,  imperfectly  versed  in  the  English 
language,  yet  very  ambitious  to  learn  its  intricate  meaning.  Dimin 
utive  in  person,  when  first  in  the  army  unusually  credulous,  good- 
natured,  and  yet  loving  fun,  Johnny  was  the  subject  of  many  prac 
tical  jokes.  Eventually  he  became  thoroughly  initiated  into  the 
mysteries  of  soldier  life.  His  first  lessons  in  English  were  obtained 
from  one  more  versed  in  profane  than  polite  idioms  of  the  language. 
Thus  Johnny  could  be  heard  at  all  hours  practicing  his  lessons.  We 
remember  his  coming  into  camp  after  a  fatiguing  day's  march,  and 
relieving  his  overburdened  soul,  under  trials  inflicted  by  some  Con 
federate  mules,  in  this  wise :  "  Sacre  tonnere !  by  gar !  mes  amis,  one 
tarn  miyule,  he  com'ee  to  ze  wagoon  and  eat'ee  mon  blonket  off  my 
knopsock !  Ze  tarn  tevil  1  Sacre  by  gar !  he  no  satisfy  to  eat  ze 
wagoon  into  what  you  call  ze  scalloop,  but  he  eat'ee  zc  only  blonket 
of  one  poor  soldat,  tarn  my  soul !"  Johnny  never  heard  the  last  of 
his  "blonket"  and  his  "knopsock." 


CHAPTER  X. 

DURING  our  return  march  and  after  the  arrival  at  Camp  Jackson, 
the  men  indulged  their  appetites  freely  in  the  fruit  everywhere  so 
abundant,  the  apples  being  large  and  mellow,  the  peaches  luscious 
and  juicy.  Yet  many  a  poor  fellow  paid  dearly  by  extra  camp  and 
guard  duty  for  eating  "  forbidden  fruit."  On  the  6th  of  September 
commenced  drilling  and  all  the  regular  minutia3  of  camp  life.  Mc- 
Culloch  informed  the  men  that  as  soon  as  he  was  prepared  he  would 
march  on  the  enemy  wherever  he  could  find  them.  At  this  time 
provisions  were  poor  and  scanty,  tents  very  scarce,  and  the  men  in 
large  numbers  actually  naked  and  barefooted.  They  expressed  the 
very  sensible  opinion  that  they  must  have  more  shelter,  clothing, 
food  and  pay  if  their  "idolized  Ben"  expected  them  to  render 
efficient  service — be  ready  for  action.  Major  Tunnard  was  taken 
sick  on  the  6th,  and  becoming  rapidly  worse,  was  finally  carried  to 
the  residence  of  Mrs.  Cunningham,  a  half-breed  Cherokee  in  the  In 
dian  Territory.  At  one  time  his  life  was  despaired  of,  and  but  for 
necessary  medicines  furnished  from  Gen.  McCulloch's  headquarters, 
the  prompt  medical  assistance  of  Dr.  Cross,  Brigade  Surgeon,  and 
the  unwearying  kindness  and  tender  care  of  Mrs.  Cunningham,  would 
undoubtedly  have  died  September  13th.  His  son  takes  an  especial 
pleasure  in  thus  noticing  the  services  of  these  kind  fiiends  in  the 
hour  of  sore  need.  Under  Mrs.  Cunningham's  careful  nursing  he 
soon  fully  recovered,  to  resume  his  duties  as  a  soldier.  On  the  9th  a 
large  supply  of  provisions  and  funds  arrived  to  gladden  the  hearts 
of  the  men.  It  was  a  day  of  general  rejoicing  in  camp.  The  next 
day  McCulloch,  having  received  the  proper  authority  from  the  Sec 
retary  of  War,  published  the  following  proclamation  : 

"HEADQUARTERS  CAMP  JACKSON,  ARK.,) 
September  10th,  1861. 

Citizens  of  ArJcansas,  Texas,  and  Louisiana: 

Every  exertion  is  now  being  made  on  the  part  of  our  enemies  of 
the  North  to  retrieve  their  late  disastrous  defeats  on  the  plains  of 


86  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Manassas,  and  the  late  battle-field  of  Oak  Hills.  It  now  becomes 
necessary,  in  order  to  maintain  the  glorious  achievements  of  our 
arms,  that  a  large  force  should  be  thrown  into  the  field  on  this 
frontier ;  and  having  received  instructions  from  the  War  Department 
at  Richmond  to  increase  the  force  under  my  command,  I  will  receive 
and  muster  into  the  service  of  the  Confederate  States  five  regiments 
of  infantry  from  each  of  the  above-named  States,  by  companies, 
battalions  and  regiments,  for  three  years  or  during  the  war.  Those 
from  Arkansas  will  rendezvous  at  Fort  Smith  and  Carnp  Jackson. 
I  have  in  my  possession  arms  sufficient  to  equip  two  regiments  of 
Arkansas  troops  ;  the  remaining  three  are  required  to  equip  them 
selves  with  the  best  they  can  procure.  The  forces  from  Texas  will 
rendezvous  at  Sherman.  Those  from  Louisiana  will  rendezvous  at 
Little  Rock.  Both  of  the  above  are  expected  to  equip  themselves 
with  the  best  arms  they  can  procure.  An  officer  will  be  detailed  to 
muster  into  service  the  forces  from  each  State  at  their  respective 
places  of  rendezvous.  The  commanding  officers  of  companies,  bat 
talions  and  regiments,  as  soon  as  they  have  been  mustered  into  ser 
vice,  will  procure  the  necessary  transportation  for  their  several  com 
mands,  and  march  them  at  once  to  Camp  Jackson,  unless  otherwise 
ordered.  Each  man  will  be  provided  with  two  suits  of  winter 
clothing  and  two  blankets,  also  tents,  if  they  can  be  procured.  It 
is  desirable  that  the  forces  of  the  several  States  should  be  in  the  field 
at  as  early  a  date  as  possible. 

I  call  upon  you,  therefore,  to  rally  to  the  defence  of  your  sister 
State,  Missouri.  Her  cause  is  your  cause,  and  the  cause  of  justice 
and  independence.  Then  rally,  my  countrymen,  and  assist  your 
friends  in  Missouri  to  drive  back  the  Republican  myrmidons  that 
still  pollute  her  soil  and  threaten  to  invade  your  own  country,  con 
fiscate  your  property,  liberate  your  slaves,  and  put  to  the  sword  every 
true  Southern  man  who  dares  to  take  up  arms  in  defence  of  his 
rights. 

The  principles  inaugurated  in  this  war  by  the  proclamation  of 
Maj.-Gen.  Fremont  should  warn  the  South  of  the  ultimate  intentions 
of  the  North,  and  show  them  the  necessity  of  rallying  to  the  stand 
ard  of  their  country  (for  the  time  specified  above),  prepared  to  fight 
in  defence  of  their  homes,  their  altars,  and  their  firesides,  until  our 
independence  shall  be  recognized  and  its  Blessings  secured  to  our 
posterity. 

BEN  McCuLLOCH,  Brigadier- General  Commanding. 

At  the  time  of  this  proclamation  several  companies  of  Texans  ar 
rived  in  camp.  One,  Goode's  Artillery,  was  a  splendidly  equipped 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  87 

company,  well  drilled  and  disciplined,  and  a  fine-looking  body  of 
men.  They  became  devotedly  attached  to  the  Louisiana  regiment. 

Mixed  amid  the  sweets  of  life  are  the  bitter  dregs.  Almost  daily 
news  reached  camp  of  the  death  of  members  of  the  regiment  at  the 
hospitals  in  Mt.  Vernon  and  other  places,  from  disease  and  wounds. 
After  the  departure  of  the  regiment  the  ladies  of  Mt.  Vernon  were 
unceasing  in  their  attention  and  untiring  in  their  kindness  to  those 
left  in  their  midst.  Yet  notwithstanding  all  that  these  kind  and 
gentle  hearts  could  do  to  stay  the  ebbing  tide  of  life,  the  soldier 
sank  to  his  final  rest,  and  sleeps  quietly  in  the  burial-ground  of  Mt. 
Vernon,  where  the  battle's  fierce  din  can  never  reach  him,  until  the 
last  reveille  shall  have  summoned  the  countless  dead  from  their  nar 
row  tombs. 

The  men  of  the  regiment  were  united  in  the  strong  bonds  of  more 
than  brotherly  affection,  and  when  death's  keen  arrow  found  its 
victim  among  their  number,  there  was  heartfelt  sorrow.  Ah  !  those 
early  graves  of  our  first  dead !  What  memories  come  back  at  the 
thought  of  them ! 

As  softly  as  starlight  melts  into  day, 
On  pinions  of  angels  their  souls  passed  away. 
Strong  men  are  bowed — in  anguish  they  weep, 
O'er  the  dead  still  so  dear — in  death's  quiet  sleep. 
But  ah !  far  away  o'er  mountain  and  glen, 
Lie  the  homes,  that  they  ne'er  shall  enter  again, 
Where  loving  ones  wait  to  welcome  in  joy 
Back  to  their  sunlight  their  own  soldier  boy. 
But  above  them  now  sweeps  the  blue  azure  dome, 
Ne'er  shall  parents  or  friends  welcome  them  home  ; 
Dear  comrades,  farewell,  your  battles  are  o'er, 
Together  in  conflict  we'll  rally  no  more. 
Farewell !  life  is  o'er,  earth  fades  from  your  sight, 
Around  you  has  closed  death's  long  dreamless  night. 

Day  after  day  passed  away  at  Camp  Jackson  during  the  month  of 
September  with  little  that  proved  of  much  interest.  There  were 
morning  company  drills  and  evening  parades,  the  latter  being  largely 
attended  by  ladies  from  the  surrounding  country,  to  witness  the 
evolutions  of  the  regiment.  The  fine  manly  appearance  of  the  men, 
their  soldierly  bearing,  discipline,  splendid  evolutions,  and  marching 
elicited  the  admiration  of  the  spectators  and  the  wonder  of  the 
new  troops.  The  weather,  most  of  the  time,  was  beautiful,  the  at 
mosphere  genial  and  pleasant.  The  sun  looked  lovingly  down  on 


A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

the  broad  expanse  of  prairie  lying  stretched  out  before  the  camp, 
while  the  gently  stirring  air  through  the  trees  which  sheltered  the 
camp,  inclined  the  men  to  gather  in  groups  and  quietly  talk  of  home 
or  discuss  the  latest  sensational  item  of  the  war. 

On  the  20th,  Major  Tunnard  received  a  commission  to  proceed  to 
Little  Kock  to  muster  in  troops,  obtain  recruits  for  the  regiment,  and 
use  his  influence  to  strengthen  McCulloch's  forces.  He  departed  on 
the  21st,  accompanied  by  the  best  wishes  of  the  regiment,  who  were 
much  attached  to  him. 

On  the  evening  of  the  25th,  while  the  different  regiments  were 
drilling  on  the  open  prairie,  Captain  Goode's  Battery  was  also  out 
practicing.  By  some  unaccountable  means  one  of  the  caissons  blew 
up,  fortunately  injuring  no  one.  The  horses  attached  ran  away  with 
the  remains,  while  the  Arkansas  troops  stampeded  in  utter  confusion 
amid  the  shouts  and  cheers  of  the  Louisianians,  who  stood  their 
ground  without  a  man  leaving  the  ranks.  They  had  already  seen 
"  the  elephant "  in  all  his  huge  proportions,  and  could  not  run  from 
an  exploding  caisson.  The  incident  furnished  food  for  many  a 
hearty  laugh  at  the  expense  of  the  Arkansians.  The  men  were  now 
suffering  intensely  from  the  want  of  proper  clothing,  as  the  weather 
began  to  change,  the  nights  growing  cold  and  frosty.  However, 
they  were  consoled  somewhat  amid  their  sufferings  with  the  intelli 
gence  that  the  State  had  forwarded  a  fine  supply  of  everything 
necessary  for  their  comfort.  Hon.  A.  Talbot,  of  Iberville,  was  ap 
pointed  by  Gov.  Moore  to  have  these  supplies  safely  and  speedily 
transported  to  the  regiment. 

On  the  last  day  of  the  month  occurred  the  first  scene  of  punish 
ment  witnessed  in  the  brigade,  one  of  the  Arkansians  having  been 
condemned  to  be  drummed  out  of  camp  with  his  head  shaved  for 
stealing.  In  the  afternoon  the  whole  brigade  assembled  to  witness 
the  execution.  They  were  formed  in  two  lines,  facing  each  other, 
with  a  space  sufficient  to  permit  the  criminal  to  march  between  the 
ranks.  At  the  appointed  hour  he  was  brought  forth,  marched  down 
the  extended  lines  to  the  tune  of  the  "  Rogue's  March,"  followed 
by  a  file  of  men  with  fixed  bayonets,  his  head  shaved  bare,  and  a 
large  placard  attached  to  his  back  marked  "  THIEF."  This  punish 
ment  was  a  novelty,  and  was  witnessed  by  the  brigade  with  serious 
faces  and  in  silence.  It  became  a  frequent  occurrence,  however,  in 
the  soldier's  experience.  The  prisoner  was  conducted  a  mile  from 
camp,  released  and  ordered  to  leave,  under  penalty,  if  caught,  of 
being  shot.  The  spectacle,  most  assuredly,  was  not  a  very  agree 
able  one. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  89 

During  this  period  General  Price  had  been  achieving  some  im 
portant  successes  in  Missouri,  having  captured  Lexington,  with 
the  Federal  forces  there,  arms,  ammunition,  etc.  His  forces  had 
rapidly  augmented  in  numbers.  The  people  of  Missouri,  under  the 
spur  of  Fremont's  proclamation,  to  kill  every  Secessionist  caught 
in  arms  against  the  United  States,  were  everywhere  organizing  for  a 
desperate  armed  resistance  to  the  invading  foe.  Everything  pointed 
to  the  early  resumption  of  active  operations. 

Captain  Theodore  Johnson  had  been  appointed  Brigade  Quarter 
master,  and  Lieutenant  W.  D.  Hardirnan,  of  Company  H,  filled  his 
post  in  the  regiment.  On  the  1st  October,  Captain  T.  L.  Maxwell, 
Regimental  Commissary,  left  the  regiment  on  furlough,  and  Felix 
K.  Brunot,  of  Company  K,  was  appointed  in  his  place  during  his  ab 
sence.  Many  of  the  men,  disabled  from  wounds  and  constitutional 
infirmities,  were  discharged.  One-half  the  regiment  were  on  the 
sick-list,  and  the  rest,  if  anything,  worse  off.  Such  was  the  state  of 
affairs  in  the  beginning  of  October. 

On  the  night  of  the  4th,  the  camp  was  visited  by  one  of  thoso 
terrific  stonns  so  prevalent  during  this  season  of  the  year,  and 
which  the  open  nature  of  the  country  rendered  all  the  more  furious 
in  its  force  and  grandeur.  Late  in  the  afternoon  huge  masses  of 
clouds,  inky  in  their  darkness,  gathered  in  the  north-west.  In  fan 
tastic  forms,  they  were  piled  up  like  a  succession  of  jagged  mountain- 
peaks,  their  rough  edges  tinged  with  a  pale-yellowish  light.  Anon 
a  vivid  flash  of  lightning  would  dart  its  forked  tongue  athwart  the 
blackness,  followed  by  the  rumbling  thunder's  roll.  The  storm 
drove  down  with  furious  speed  upon  our  encampment.  The  men 
hurried  hither  and  thither,  driving  down  tent-pegs  and  tightening 
the  cords.  From  experience,  dearly  bought,  they  knew  what  to 
expect.  It  burst  at  last  upon  the  camp  with  ten-fold  fury.  The 
lightning's  blinding  flash  was  followed  by  the  thunder's  peal,  crash 
upon  crash,  in  rapid  succession.  The  trees  groaned  and  shivered 
with  the  wind-king's  mighty  power.  Then  came  down  the  rain, 
first  in  large  pattering  drops,  succeeded  finally  by  a  deluge  of  water 
as  if  all  the  flood-gates  of  heaven  had  been  loosed.  Cries,  shouts 
and  laughter  were  heard  on  all  sides,  according  to  the  nature  of  the 
men's  mishaps ;  tents  tumbled  upon  their  occupants,  from  beneath 
which  the  men  would  emerge  like  drowned  rats,  much  to  the  amuse 
ment  of  their  more  fortunate  comrades.  Such  scenes  as  these  were 
no  rare  occurrence,  and  formed  a  part  of  the  soldier's  experience  at 
Camp  Jackson. 


CHAPTER  XI. 


AMUSEMENTS. 

THE  boys  whiled  away  the  idle  hours  of  camp  life  with  games 
and  amusements  of  every  description.  Racing,  athletic  sports, 
wrestling,  trials  of  skill  and  strength,  pitching  quoits,  gymnastic 
performances,  and  last,  but  not  least,  foot-ball.  Kind  reader,  did  you 
ever  witness  the  game  ?  If  not,  we  will  enlighten  your  understand 
ing.  It  is  a  favorite  amusement  with  college-boys,  where,  if  played 
with  roughness,  yet  is  the  game  conducted  according  to  systematic 
rule.  A  foot-ball  is  usually  about  the  size  of  a  man's  head,  or  a 
thirty-six  pound  cannon-ball.  It  is  manufactured  out  of  four  oval 
pieces  of  leather,  so  shaped  as  to  be  as  round  as  possible.  An  open 
ing  is  left  in  this  cover,  with  a  tongue  to  cover  the  opening,  on 
both  sides  of  which  are  holes,  at  regular  intervals,  so  that  it  could 
be  tightly  laced  up.  Through  this  opening  was  inserted  a  fresh 
beef  bladder,  which  was  then  blown  up  to  the  utmost  capacity  of 
the  cover.  The  mouth  of  the  bladder  was  then  securely  tied,  the 
end  thrust  inside  the  cover,  which  was  tightly  laced  up,  and  the 
ball  is  ready  for  the  game — a  light,  bounding  thing,  to  be  rudely 
kicked,  cuffed  and  scrambled  over.  The  ground  being  chosen,  free 
from  all  obstructions,  two  stakes  are  driven  down  securely,  about 
fifteen  or  twenty  yards  apart,  at  a  distance  of  fifty  or  seventy-five 
yards,  or  further  if  deemed  necessary.  Sides  are  then  chosen,  equal 
in  numbers,  whose  object  is  to  drive  the  ball  through  each  other's 
base,  or  "  home,"  with  the  foot  alone.  Behold,  then,  these  weather- 
beaten  men,  strong,  active,  athletic,  inured  to  hardship,  thus  arrayed. 
There  is  to  be  no  schoolboys'  work  here,  but  a  trial  of  muscular 
strength,  united  with  skill  and  fleetness  on  foot.  The  scene  is  so 
grotesque  and  peculiar  that  it  would  astonish  and  amuse  our  friends 
at  home.  The  players  are  dressed  in  every  variety  of  fanciful  cos 
tumes.  Shirts  of  gaudy  hues,  colored  handkerchiefs  tightly  tied 
around  their  bodies,  pants  stuffed  into  socks,  turbans,  fanciful,  in- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  91 

deed,  formed  of  woolen  tippets,  red,  blue,  green  and  yellow,  all 
showing  that  the  u  boys"  appreciate  the  "  phunny"  scenes  of  more 
peaceful  times.  At  a  distance  the  men  look  like  a  collection  of 
revelers  on  Mardi-gras  day. 

A  single  player,  with  ball  in  hand,  steps  midway  between  the  two 
opposing  forces,  and,  with  a  tremendous  kick,  "  camps1'  it.  Both 
parties  make  a  rush  at  the  rolling,  bounding  plaything,  in  their 
desperate  efforts  to  force  it  through  each  other's  base.  They  scramble, 
fight,  wrestle  over  it,  all  in  good-humor.  Shins  suffer  tremendously 
in  the  struggle,  often  receiving  the  blow  intended  for  the  ball.  At 
times  two  opposing  players  make  a  rush  at  it,  and  with  fearful  force 
strike  it  at  the  same  time,  and,  performing  a  flying  leap  through  the 
air,  measure  their  full  length  in  opposite  directions  on  the  green 
sward. 

Captains  and  lieutenants  and  privates,  officers  and  men,  joined  in 
the  sport,  affording  the  privates  a  rare  chance  to  repay  some  personal 
pique  or  fancied  wrong.  Woe  betide  the  unpopular  officer  who 
joined  in  this  game,  for  he  was  certain  to  come  from  it  sore  and  bruised. 
Such  is  an  imperfect  outline  of  this  "  rough-and-tumble"  sport,  which 
was  the  favorite  amusement  at  Camp  Jackson. 

We  turn  from  these  sports  to  a  scene  more  interesting  as  well  as 
exciting.  On  the  5th  of  October  several  boxes  arrived  in  camp  for 
Company  K,  containing  donations  of  clothing,  etc.,  from  their  friends 
and  relatives  at  home.  Notwithstanding  the  day  was  dark,  gloomy 
and  stormy,  the  air  chill  and  damp,  all  turned  out  and  gathered  in 
anxious  expectation  and  excitement  around  the  boxes.  Bundle  after 
bundle  found  its  way  to  the  proper  owner,  amid  cheers,  cries  and 
shouts.  Surely  could  the  ladies  of  the  "  Baton  Rouge  Campaign 
Sewing  Society"  have  witnessed  the  scenes  around  those  boxes, 
heard  the  expressions  of  gratitude,  and  viewed  the  demonstrations 
°f  j°y  on  all  sides,  they  would  have  felt  that  their  labors  were  prop 
erly  appreciated.  Members  from  the  other  companies,  and  from 
McNair's  and  McRae's  Arkansas  Regiments,  gathered  around  to 
witness  the  delivery  of  the  clothing,  until  there  was  a  dense  mass  of 
jostling,  crowding,  noisy  men,  of  which  the  boxes  formed  the  nucleus 
and  centre  of  attraction.  Each  uniform  contained  either  letters, 
pictures  of  dear  ones  at  home,  souvenirs  from  sweethearts,  gloves 
or  tippets,  pockets  and  arms  being  stuffed  with  these  mementoes^ 
Accompanying  this  supply  of  clothing  was  a  mysterious-looking 
box,  the  gift  of  a  friend  and  citizen  to  the  company.  On  being 
opened  it  was  found  to  contain  liquors  of  all  kinds,  "  rara  avis  "  in 
camp ;  yea  !  much  "  forbidden  fruit,"  such  as  brandy,  whisky,  cor- 


92  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

dials,  etc.,  with  ink,  lemons,  looking-glasses,  combs,  brushes,  tobacco, 
pipes,  pickles  ;  in  fact,  a  perfect  assortment  of  "  knick-knacks  "  and 
groceries.  The  donor  was  enthusiastically  toasted  for  his  munificence, 
and  the  name  of  "  Tony  "  Montau  became  a  synonym  for  joviality 
and  fun.  It  was  but  a  short  time  before  the  whole  regiment  received 
their  supply  of  clothing,  the  munificent  gift  of  Louisiana  to  her  brave 
sons.  This  clothing  was  manufactured  at  the  State  Penitentiary, 
and  was  of  substantial  material,  known  as  jeans,  being  of  a  grayish- 
blue  color,  with  the  exception  of  Company  K,  which  was  of  a  dark 
brown.  The  outfit  of  the  regiment  exceeded  their  most  sanguine 
expectations,  and  infused  a  new  feeling  and  spirit  among  the  men, 
and  they  felt  that  now  were  they  fully  prepared  for  active  operations, 
regardless  of  winter's  approaching  rigorous  weather. 

We  consider  the  annexed  tribute  to  the  ladies  of  the  Campaign 
Sevang  Society  no  innovation  to  the  pages  of  this  volume,  an  expres 
sion  of  sentiments  equally  applicable  to  other  companies  of  the  regi 
ment,  and  which  but  few  soldiers  of  the  South  did  not  experience  at 
some  period  of  their  lives  in  the  army,  for  the  patriotic  devotion, 
unceasing  labors,  patient  toil,  and  heroic  fortitude  and  self-sacrificing 
spirit  of  our  fair  Southern  women,  in  aiding  and  strengthening  the 
cause  which  their  sons,  fathers,  husbands,  brothers  and  lovers  had 
espoused. 

HEADQUARTERS  Co.  K,  THIRD  REGT.  LA.  VOLS.,  ) 

Camp  Jackson,  Ark.,  Oct.  8ih,  1861.          } 

To  the  President  and  Members  of  the  Ladies'  Campaign  Sewing  Society  : 
KIND  FRIENDS, — When  the  heart  is  fullest,  the  lips  fail  in  giving 
expression  to  the  strength  and  depth  of  the  inward  emotions.  Yet 
such  is  the  case  as  I  now  attempt  to  pen  these  lines.  False  indeed 
would  I  be  to  my  own  feelings,  did  I  not  express  to  you  in  some  man 
ner  my  heartfelt  thanks  for  the  untiring  zeal  and  energy  which  you 
have  displayed  in  the  equipment  of  the  Pelican  Rifles  for  their  winter 
campaign. 

Mere  words,  mere  language,  will  not  convey  a  tithe  of  the  emotions 
stirred  within  me,  or  the  gratitude  felt  for  your  munificence.  Surely 
our  arms  will  be  nerved  anew  to  strike  fresh  blows,  and  our  hearts 
strengthened  by  this  exhibition  of  your  interest  in  us  and  the  cause 
of  Southern  Independence. 

Though  there  may  not  be  among  you  any  Molly  Pitchers  to  avenge, 
at  the  cannon's  mouth,  amid  the  din  aod  strife  of  the  battle-field,  a 
loved  one's  death,  or  thus  exhibit  your  interest  in  our  country's 
cause,  yours  is  none  the  less  a  work  of  patriotism— more  a  work  of 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  93 

love.  Loved  ones  liave  departed  from  your  midst,  and  many  are  the 
vacant  places  at  the  quiet  fireside  and  in  the  home  circles  of  those 
who  have  gone  forth  to  aid  in  driving  the  invader  and  despoiler 
from  Southern  soil.  They  are  enduring  the  privations  and  sufferings 
of  a  soldier's  life,  living  in  tents  and  the  open  air,  braving  the 
dangers  of  the  battle-field,  the  rigors  of  a  severe  climate.  Yet,  while 
husbands,  fathers,  sons  and  friends  are  thus  evincing  their  devotion 
to  the  common  cause,  your  interesting  perseverance  and  energy,  your 
noble,  self-sacrificing  spirit  and  unceasing  labors  of  love  aid  as 
materially  the  success  and  onward  march  of  our  independence,  our 
freedom  of  thought,  speech  and  action. 

Dark  clouds  of  battle  in  gloom  o'er  us  lower  ; 

Armed  legions  have  gathered  to  join  in  the  fight ; 
A  despot  has  called  his  hordes  to  o'erpower 

A  people  all  free,  now  battling  for  right. 

From  workshop  and  counter,  from  lowly  cottage  and  lordly  man 
sion,  freemen  have  hastened  and  now  stand  shoulder  to  shoulder, 
regardless  of  former  place  or  position,  to  make  a  despot's  minions 
feel  the  strength  of  freemen' 's  arms,  of  freemen's  daring  and  bravery. 

You,  mothers  and  daughters  at  home,  are  aiding  the  cause  of  "  Ee- 
bellion,"  and  so  long  as  your  patriotism  lasts,  evinced  in  such  works 
of  love  and  remembrance  as  we  have  lately  been  the  recipients  of,  so 
long  is  there  reason  to  hope  for  the  eventual  triumph  of  Southern 
freemen.  Woman's  love,  woman's  patriotism  and  devotion  will 
achieve  more  than  armed  legions,  and  do  now  accomplish  more  than 
aught  else  in  aiding  to  turn  back  the  tide  of  Northern  hate  and 
fanaticism. 

Kind  friends,  what  more  can  I  say  ?  How  evince  to  you  the 
thanks,  the  gratitude  of  a  soldier's  heart  ?  Let  deeds  of  future 
daring  and  bravery  convince  you  that  soldiers  are  not  unmindful  of 
the  interest  exhibited  towards  and  felt  in  them  by  loved  and  fair 
ones  at  home.  "With  a  prayer  for  blessings  on  your  labors  and  the 
final  success  of  our  cause, 

I  subscribe  myself  your  friend, 

W.  H.  TUNNAKD,  Acting  Orderly  Sergeant. 
In  behalf  of  Company  K. 


CHAPTER    XII. 

THE   FALL   CAMPAIGN. 

OCTOBEE  7th,  1861,  was  a  beautiful,  clear  day,  such  as  we  often 
experience  in  the  Fall.  Orders  were  issued  to  prepare  to  break  up 
camp  and  move  on  the  following  morning  at  10  o'clock  A.  M.  All 
was  bustle  and  confusion,  the  men  hurrying,  scampering  to  and  fro, 
packing  knapsacks,  etc.  The  order,  however,  was  rescinded,  as  it  was 
found  impossible  to  complete  the  necessary  preparations  to  march. 
Rumors  began  to  prevail  that  General  Price  was  retreating,  closely 
followed  by  Fremont  with  an  army  of  30,000  men.  On  the  llth, 
under  orders,  we  left  Camp  Jackson,  and  ere  night  had  once  more 
crossed  the  line  into  Missouri,  our  destination  being  reported  as 
Carthage,  camping  in  an  open  field,  surrounded  by  dense  woods. 
On  the  12th  an  election  was  held  for  officers  to  fill  vacancies  in  the 
various  companies,  Company  A  choosing  E.  Gourrier  as  Second 
Junior  Lieutenant ;  Company  K,  H.  H.  Gentles. 

On  this  day  also  the  regiment  received  their  first  pay  from  the  Con 
federate  States  for  May  and  June  in  scrip,  a  species  of  money  not 
very  available  to  the  soldier.  The  country  abounded  in  wild  fruit 
and  nuts,  such  as  pawpaws,  grapes,  hawes,  hazel-nuts,  and  apples 
also  in  profusion,  of  which  the  men  gathered  eagerly  and  devoured. 
13th.  Camped  at  Scott's  Mills,  on  Elk  River.  The  next  day,  while  on 
the  march,  the  regiment  met  the  family  and  eifects  of  Governor 
Jackson,  of  Missouri,  en  route  for  Arkansas.  The  meeting  between 
the  Governor  and  the  regiment,  there,  in  the  lonely  woods  of 
Missouri,  was  a  scene  such  as  few  can  ever  forget.  The  day  was 
bright  and  beautiful ;  the  sunbeams  glancing  smilingly  down  through 
the  o'ershadowing  branches  of  the  forest  trees.  As  the  Governor 
approached,  the  regiment  formed  in  line  along  the  roadside  and 
welcomed  him  with  three  hearty  cheers,  at  the  same  time  presenting 
arms,  as  he  moved  along  the  line,  with  head  uncovered.  Reaching 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  95 

the  extreme  left  of  the  line,  Governor  Jackson  faced  the  men,  and, 
in  tones  trembling  from  the  depth  of  his  agitation  and  emotion,  thus 
addressed  them:  "I  am  glad  to  meet  you.  I  welcome  you  to 
Missouri.  You  will  find  many  warm-hearted  brothers  here  who  will 
warmly,  nobly  greet  you.  I  feel  that  Missouri  is  free,  and  hope  to 
announce  on  ray  return  that  she  is  legally  a  member  of  the  Southern 
Confederacy,  even  as  she  now  is  virtually.  There  are  troops  enough, 
I  hope,  to  drive  every  foe  from  her  soil.  We  have  plenty  to  feed 
them,  and  if  we  are  blessed  with  pleasant  weather,  one  of  our  old- 
fashioned  autumns,  not  an  enemy  will  remain  in  the  State.  I  hope 
and  expect  that  you  will  winter  in  the  heart  of  Missouri,  if  not  in 
St.  Louis.  I  have  heard  of  you  before  at  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills, 
and  for  your  deeds  there  I  thank  you.  Once  again  I  welcome  you 
to  Missouri."  This  simple-worded  address  of  the  Governor,  deliv 
ered  with  impressive  force  and  eloquence  of  manner,  elicited  another 
burst  of  applause  from  the  warm-hearted  Louisianians.  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  Hyams  replied  in  the  following  expressive  language  :  "  In 
behalf  of  the  Louisiana  Regiment  I  would  simply  answer — let  their 
past  deeds  speak  for  tlieir  future" 

Such  is  the  outline  of  the  most  pleasant  incident  of  our  campaign. 
The  march  was  resumed.  Camped  at  night  on  the  right  of  an  open 
field,  in  woods,  near  the  roadside,  the  spot  being  known  as  Camp 
Pike.  Goode's  Texas  Battery  joined  us  to-day.  In  this  camp  oc 
curred  a  fearful  tragedy,  always  a  matter  of  deep  regret  and  sorrow, 
but  especially  among  those  who  should  be  united  in  the  strong  bonds 
of  unity  of  feeling,  interest,  and  purpose.  Two  members  of  the 
Morehouse  Fencibles,  Co.  E,  were  engaged  in  a  game  of  cards,  when 
a  dispute  arose,  ending  in  blows.  The  result  was  that  Mayo  shot 
Hays  in  the  abdomen,  inflicting  a  mortal  wound;  Hays  drew  a 
Bowie-knife,  after  being  shot,  stabbing  and  instantly  killing  Mayo. 
Hays  died  the  next  day  in  Neosho.  Thus  two  valuable  lives  were 
sacrificed  needlessly,  and  the  regiment  lost  two  efficient  members. 
On  the  17th  the  march  was  resumed,  the  regiment  passing  through 
Neosho,  and  camped  eighteen  miles  from  Carthage,  on  Shoal  Creek. 
Rumors  of  the  enemy's  approach  began  to  be  very  prevalent,  it  being 
supposed  that  they  would  attempt  to  gain  possession  of  Neosho  be 
fore  the  23d,  the  day  appointed  for  the  convening  of  the  Legislature 
of  Missouri  for  the  purpose  of  passing  the  secession  ordinance.  The 
regiment  still  continued  to  advance,  arriving  on  the  18th  at  Centre 
Creek.  The  20th  they  began  their  retreat,  Price's  army,  computed 
at  18,000  men,  arriving  at  Neosho  and  filling  the  whole  valley  in 
which  it  was  situated  with  the  uproar,  confusion  and  bustle  incident 


96  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

to  the  camping  of  a  large  force,  especially  one  in  rapid  letreat  from 
a  pursuing  foe.  This  morning  the  air  was  chill  and  cold,  the  ground 
covered  with  a  heavy  hoar-frost.  Yet  the  day  turned  out  clear,  serene 
and  beautiful.  It  always  seemed  as  if  these  quiet  Sabbath-days 
must  mark  some  important  event  and  stirring  scenes  I  McCulloch's 
Division  was  in  the  neighborhood,  wild  rumors  prevalent,  added  to 
which  was  the  arrival  of  General  McCulloch  and  staff,  Gov.  Jackson, 
Generals  Rains,  Harris,  and  Price,  making  a  scene  of  excitement 
seldom  witnessed,  beyond  portrayal  by  human  language.  The  next 
morning  the  Louisiana  regiment,  after  marching  nearly  all  night, 
passed  through  Neosho,  en  route  for  Arkansas,  followed  by  the  mount 
ed  forces.  As  regiment  after  regiment  poured  through  the  place,  the 
excitement  became  intense,  and  affairs  began  to  assume  a  serious 
aspect.  The  Missourians  complained  loudly  against  Arkansas  for 
not  re-enforcing  McCulloch.  It  did,  indeed,  seem  strange,  that  the 
people  of  Arkansas  should  have  remained  idle  spectators  of  these 
events,  when  their  own  State  was  threatened  with  invasion,  and  no 
barrier  to  oppose  it  save  General  McCulloch's  brave  little  army,  and 
the  gallant  Missourians,  struggling  so  nobly  and  desperately  to  free 
their  State  fr.om  the  presence  of  the  foe.  This  sudden  retreat,  how 
ever,  seemed  to  awaken  the  dormant  energies  of  the  Arkansians,  and 
they  began  to  organize  and  hasten  to  the  rescue.  Stone's  Texas  Regi 
ment  passed  the  regiment  while  on  the  retreat,  uttering  loud,  shrill 
Indian  war-whoops  as  they  dashed  by  at  the  top  of  their  horses' 
speed.  They  were  a  splendidly  mounted  body  of  men.  The  retro 
grade  movement  of  McCulloch's  forces  continued  through  Pineville, 
until  the  regiment  once  more  struck  camp  at  Cavendish  Springs, 
called  "  Camp  McCulloch,"  two  miles  above  Camp  Stephens,  in  Ar 
kansas,  but  a  short  distance  from  the  Missouri  line.  Thus  the  men, 
after  an  absence  of  fifteen  days,  once  more  found  rest,  much  to  their 
relief.  The  weather  was  becoming  very  cold,  still  nothing  was  said 
or  thought  about  winter-quarters.  In  the  mean  time,  General  Price 
was  once  more  on  the  advance.  He  seemed  indefatigable  in  his 
efforts,  undaunted  in  his  determination  to  keep  within  the  borders 
of  Missouri. 

General  McCulloch's  mounted  forces  had  gone  to  the  front  to  feel 
the  enemy's  position,  and,  if  possible,  ascertain  his  strength. 

Numerous  laughable  incidents  occurred  on  the  retreat,  but  we  give 
place  only  to  the  following  good  joke,  told  on  Colonel  Hebert.  It 
seems  that  at  one  of  the  camps,  between  Carthage  and  Neosho,  sev 
eral  of  the  regiment  found  a  pen  full  of  very  fine  fat  hogs,  or,  as  the 
boys  termed  them,  "bear,"  for  whose  flesh  they  had  a  "lamentable" 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  97 

love.  It  was  the  work  of  but  a  few  moments  to  kill  several  of  the 
largest  and  finest.  A  dispute  arose  as  to  whether  they  should  scald 
them  or  skin  them,  the  usual  modus  operandi  in  such  cases.  The 
Colonel,  unnoticed,  had  approached  the  group,  and  after  listening 
to  the  dispute,  quietly  remarked :  u  Skin  them,  my  men,  skin  them  ; 
no  time  for  scalding  now."  The  boys  were  completely  astonished, 
both  at  the  interruption  and  such  a  relaxation  from  the  enforcement 
of  strict  military  discipline  by  the  Colonel.  However,  they  followed 
his  advice,  and  told  the  joke  much  to  the  amusement  of  the  whole 
regiment. 

RETROGRADING. 

Just  after  leaving  the  vicinity  of  Carthage,  and  while  crossing  an 
open  prairie,  a  bright  light  became  visible,  and  several  of  the  men 
in  their  feverish  excitement  declared  that  they  saw  horsemen  gallop 
ing  by.  Adjutant  Hyams  and  several  others  were  sent  to  reconnoitre 
but  discovered  nothing.  The  men  then  began  to  question  Colonel 
Hebert  eagerly  as  to  where  they  were  going,  inquiring  anxiously  if 
they  were  retreating.  "  Retreating  ?"  said  the  Colonel :  "  Oh  no,  my 
men — only  retrograding."  The  regiment  learned  thoroughly  the 
meaning  of  the  word  ere  they  finally  rested  from  the  wearisome 
march. 

In  the  account  of  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills  it  is  mentioned  that 
Companies  A  and  K,  Third  Louisiana,  were  united  under  the  com 
mand  of  Captain  J.  P.  Viglini  (Co.  K).  The  following  orders  ex 
plain  the  absence  of  Captain  Brusle  on  that  memorable  occasion : 

HEADQUARTERS  MCCULLOCH'S  BRIGADE,) 
Camp  Stephens,  Ark.,  July  21,  1861.      \ 

CAPT. — You  will  proceed  without  delay  to  the  Creek  Agency  in 
the  Indian  Territory,  and  there  muster  in  a  regiment  of  Creek  Indians. 
It  appears  from  treaty  stipulations  made  by  Captain  Pike,  Commis 
sioner,  that  this  regiment  is. to  be  composed  of  eight  companies  of 
Creeks  and  two  of  Seminoles. 

It  will  be  proper  for  you,  as  soon  as  you  reach  the  Indian  Territory, 
to  make  Captain  Pike,  the  Commissioner,  aware  of  your  mission, 
who  will,  no  doubt,  give  you  valuable  information  in  regard  to  this 
regiment.  As  soon  as  the  regiment  is  organized  and  mustered  into 
service,  an  election  will  be  held  for  a  colonel  and  other  field  officers, 
whom  you  will  also  muster  into  service. 

Major  Clark,  Quartermaster  at  Fort  Smith,  will  be  directed  to  send 
to  you  an  agent  of  the  Quartermaster  and  Commissary  Departments, 
to  furnish  the  necessary  supplies.  Beef  and  flour  can  be  furnished 
5 


98  A   SOUTHERN   EECORD. 

in  the  country,  or  certainly  from  Texas.  It  will  therefore  only  be 
necessary  to  furnish  the  regiment  with  coffee,  sugar,  and  salt  from 
Fort  Smith,  and  directions  will  be  given  to  that  eifect.  A  quantity 
of  powder  and  lead  will  also  be  sent  from  Fort  Smith  to  the  regi 
ment. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be,  Captain, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
JAMES  MC!NTOSH,  Capt.  C.  S.  A.  and  Adjt.-Gen. 

HEADQUARTERS  McCuLLOcn's  BRIGADE,} 

Special  Orders,  )  Camp  Stephens,  Ark.,  July  22,  1861.      ( 

No.  16.         \ 

I.  Captain  C.  A.  Brusle,  of  the  Louisiana  Regiment  of  Volunteers, 
will  proceed  without  delay  to  the  Creek  Agency,  and  muster  in  a 
regiment  of  Creek  and  Seminole  Indians,  which  is  being  organized 
there. 

II.  Major  Clark,  Brigade  Quartermaster  at  Fort  Smith,  will  send 
with  Captain  Brusle  an  agent  of  the  Quartermaster  and  Subsistence 
Departments,  to  furnish  the  necessary  supplies  to  the  different  com 
panies  of  the  regiment  as  they  are  mustered  into  service. 

By  order  General  McCulloch. 

JAMES  MC!NTOSH,  Capt.  C.  8.  A.  and  Ad jt.- Gen.  of  Brigade. 

Perhaps  no  more  interesting  subject  could  be  presented  than  a  few 
items  concerning  the  Indians,  their  countiy,  method  of  living,  and 
connection  with  the  late  struggle.  The  part  which  they  took  in  the 
war  seems  to  have  been  totally  ignored.  Availing  ourself  of  the 
privilege  given  by  the  notes  of  Captain  Brusle,  we  give  a  chapter  on 
this  subject. 

In  obedience  to  the  above  order,  Captain  Brusle  immediately  pro 
ceeded  to  Fort  Smith  to  carry  out  the  object  of  his  instructions.  He 
left  Fort  Smith  July  30th,  at  12  M.,  and  reached  Scully ville  at  6  p.  M., 
fourteen  miles  from  Fort  Smith.  The .  country  up  to  within  five 
miles  of  the  place  resembles  the  wild  lands  of  Lower  Louisiana  in 
appearance.  The  soil  is  very  fertile,  and  produces  large  crops  of 
corn,  oats  and  wheat.  There  were  few  farms  along  the  road,  yet 
these  compare  favorably  in  every  respect  with  the  best  farms  in 
Northwestern  Arkansas. 

Although  the  land  between  Fort  Smith  and  Scullyville  cannot  be 
excelled  in  fertility,  yet,  at  this  period,  there  were  but  three  farms  to 
be  seen.  The  country  beyond  Sculiyville  is  a  rolling  prairie,  mostly 
sterile.  The  houses  on  the  farms  are  built  of  logs,  and  are  not  very 
comfortable  in  appearance. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  99 

On  the  31st,  Captain  B.  gives  the  following  bill  of  fare  for  dinner: 
Corn-bread,  milk  and  hominy,  with  rancid  bacon  ;  '•  not  very  pala 
table,"  says  the  Captain,  "  but  I  take  a  little  to  prevent  from  starv 
ing.  Now  add  to  this  most  detestable  water,  and  a  man's  misery  is 
complete."  The  scarcity  and  impurity  of  water  on  this  route  is  a 
noticeable  fact.  Traveled  eighteen  miles  without  water;  found 
some  impossible  to  drink,  as  it  smells  too  strong  of  carrion.  Traveled 
eight  miles  more  and  succeeded  in  getting  some  of  an  Indian  farmer, 
which  I  managed  to  drink,  although  smelling  badly  and  having  an 
oily  surface.  After  traveling  two  miles  more,  Captain  B.  stopped 
at  Mr.  Jones'  farm.  He  drew  some  water  from  the  well,  and  found 
it  filled  with  those  "bugs"  which  infest  all  well-traveled  roads. 
This  caused  a  sudden  weakness  about  the  Captain's  stomach,  which 
shocked  his  whole  system.  The  very  Avorthy  Captain  attempts  to 
become  stoical  and  determined  as  an  Indian,  yet  he  breaks  out :  "  I 
begin  to  think  that  McCulloch  ought  to  have  sent  some  one  else  on 
this  mission." 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Jones  (of  the  Jones  family)  are  Choctaws ;  live  like 
the  other  farmers  ;  had  a  family — three  boys  and  as  many  girls.  No 
fruit  of  any  kind  is  to  be  found.  A  neglected  peach-tree  in  some 
corner  of  a  yard  is  occasionally  seen,  but  few  water-melons  even ; 
yet  the  soil  is  good,  and  capable  of  producing  such  fruit  in  abund 
ance. 

On  the  1st  August  Captain  B.  was  stopping  at  Mr.  J.  Brebb's,  a 
half-breed  Choctaw.  "  His  wife  is  a  very  large  squaw,  weighing  over 
two  hundred  pounds.  Still  she  appears  active.  Their  house,  al 
though  of  logs,  was  about  as  comfortable  as  any  seen  in  the  Western 
country.  It  is  as  neatly  and  as  comfortably  furnished  as  log- 
houses  can  well  be.  They  own  a  family  of  negroes,  who  work  a 
goodly-sized  farm  for  them." 

"  The  prairies  cannot  be  surpassed  in  beauty.  For  a  distance  of 
ten  or  fifteen  miles  all  around,  you  behold  a  rolling  prairie,  covered 
with  excellent,  luxuriant  grass,  whose  emerald  surface  rolls  away  in 
long  waves  'neath  the  autumnal  breeze.  Even  the  hills  are  covered 
with  this  growth  of  nature's  covering.  The  whole  country  has  the 
appearance  of  being  hemmed  in  by  a  tall,  blue,  vapory  wall,  which 
are  the  mountains,  raising  their  tall  summits,  at  a  great  distance, 
north,  south,  east  and  west.  The  sight  is  grand,  imposing  and 
picturesque,  filling  the  soul  of  the  beholder  with  unexpressible  emo 
tions." 

August  22d.  Saw  the  famous  Tom  Star,  a  Cherokee  Indian, 
who  was  rendered  notorious  by  the  perils  which  he  encountered  a 


100  A  SOUTHERN  EECOED. 

few  years  since  while  upon  terms  of  deadly  hatred  against  the  whole 
Cherokee  Nation.  He  was  not  alone,  however,  in  his  opposition,  for 
he  had  fourteen  brothers  who  all  espoused  his  cause.  For  a  period 
of  upwards  of  four  years  the  Cherokee  Nation  was  the  theatre  of  the 
most  revolting  scenes.  Murder  followed  murder  in  rapid  succession. 
The  Cherokees  finally  succeeded  in  killing  all  the  Stars  but  Toin 
and  one  of  his  brothers  (both  living  now),  who  still  annoyed  them 
to  such  an  extent  that  they  sued  for  peace.  Old  Tom,  who  had 
often  fled  for  his  life  and  made  many  hair-breadth  and  miraculous 
escapes,  was  now  handsomely  paid  to  cease  hostilities.  The  old 
man  is  very  intelligent,  and  is  very  familiar  with  all  portions  of  the 
Indian  Territory,  as  well  as  parts  of  Texas,  Missouri  and  Arkansas, 
These  States  he  paid  a  hurried  visit  to  while  fleeing  from  the  pursuit 
of  the  Cherokees.  He  is  said,  at  present,  to  be  one  of  the  most 
peaceful  men  in  the  Nation.  I  acquired  much  valuable  information 
from  him  during  his  short  stay  at  Mr.  Rubbs'.  He  promised  to  join 
Us  at  Springfield,  where  he  can  see  a  "  big  fight."  Here  I  met  an 
other  character  in  the  person  of  a  straggling  Indian.  His  name  is 
Moses  Riddle  ;  is  very  poor ;  lives  wherever  he  has  an  opportunity, 
and  is  very  stupid,  the  effects  of  whisky,  doubtless,  as  he  has  the 
appearance  of  a  confirmed  drunkard.  He  seems  to  be  very  anxious 
to  join  the  army,  and  promises  to  unite  with  the  Creeks,  if  he  can 
only  find  his  pony,  wrho,  like  the  chief  characteristic  of  his  owner, 
is  much  given  to  straying  or  straggling.  This  man  Riddle  said  he 
had  two  brothers  in  the  army ;  one  of  them,  he  seemed  to  think,  was 
a  very  gallant  fellow.  He  went  on  to  say,  "  One  of  my  brothers  is 
a  murderer,"  in  that  exalted  tone  in  which  a  white  man  would  have 
acquainted  you  with  the  fact  that  his  brother  was  colonel  of  a  regi 
ment  or  general  of  an  army.  It  appears  that  his  brother  had  a  dis 
pute  with  a  Cherokee  about  a  horse,  which  was  the  cause  of  his 
shooting  the  Cherokee.  His  second  feat  was  performed  on  the  per 
son  of  the  Sheriff  of  the  county,  who  attempted,  in  obedience  to 
the  law  of  the  Nation,  to  seize  some  whisky  he  carried  with  him. 

This  picture  is  too  revolting  for  more  particulars.  "  Last  night," 
continues  Captain  B.,  "  I  had  the  pleasure  of  sleeping  in  the  same 
room  with  this  apologist  of  the  crime  of  murder." 

Mr.  Rubbs  is  a  half-breed,  stands  about  six  feet  two  or  three 
inches  in  his  socks.  His  frame  is  well  formed  both  for  strength  and 
activity ;  seems  to  be  very  resolute,  and,  at  the  same  time,  kind- 
hearted.  His  children  are  unusually  badly  spoiled.  Indian  babies 
are  generally  the  most  noisy  in  the  world  except  negroes. 

Arrived  at  North  Fork  at  2  r.  M.,  August  3.     This  place  contains 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  101 

about  eight  stores  and  several  indifferent  residences,  together  with  a 
boarding-house,  kept  by  a  half-breed  Creek  named  Smith,  who  is 
absent  with  Captain  Pike,  making  treaties  with  the  wild  Western 
Indian  tribes.  Mrs.  Smith  is  nearly  white,  dresses  quite  neatly,  and 
is  "  much  of  a  lady."  Here  I  was  visited  by  a  number  of  celebrities, 
among  whom  were  Captain  W.  F.  Mclntosh,  Captain  Napoleon, 
Moore  and  Walker.  These  gentlemen  show  the  very  smallest  evi 
dence  of  Indian  blood,  are  very  affable,  courteous  and  polite  in  man 
ners.  One  would  imagine  he  was  among  the  most  refined  of  the 
American  race,  did  he  not  know  them  to  be  half-breeds.  They  are 
similar  in  dress  to  the  Americans,  and  intensely  Southern  in  feeling 
and  sentiments.  They  despise  a  Yankee  as  they  would,  a  rattle 
snake,  with  all  that  deadly  hatred  so  characteristic  of  the  race,  sur 
passing  a  Spaniard  in  intensity,  with  that  tenacity  of  feeling  which 
nothing  can  eradicate.  They  were  delighted  at  the  idea  of  being 
mustered  into  the  service,  and  were  proud  to  see  Captain  B.,  to 
whom  they  paid  every  attention. 

The  country  in  this  region  is  well  settled,  the  crops  abundant,  and 
the  people  are  exultant  over  the  defeat  of  the  Federals  at  Manassas. 
They  say  they  will  never  rest  satisfied  until  they  invade  Kansas  and 
pay  the  villains  there  back  ^.n  their  own  coin.  The  inhabitants  are  well- 
behaved,  orderly  and  moral  in  their  habits.  I  have,  as  yet,  seen  no 
full-blood  Indians.  To-morrow  will  leave  for  the  Creek  Agency  to 
meet  the  soldiers.  Have  been  awaiting  the  arrival  of  the  Colonel 
of  the  regiment. 

The  heat  here  is  suffocating ;  the  thermometer  stands  110°,  and  the 
prairie  breezes  are  as  refreshing  as  steam  from  an  escape-pipe. 

I  left  Mr.  Smith's  at  5  o'clock  A.  M.,  August  4,  and  arrived  at  R. 
Ross'  place  at  11,}  A.  M.,  after  taking  advantage  of  many  of  the  shade- 
trees  about  the  creeks  I  crossed.  The  distance  traveled  is  twenty- 
three  miles.  This  may  look  like  slow  traveling,  but  it  is  accom 
plishing  a  great  deal  when  there  is  taken  into  consideration  the 
effect  of  the  sun  in  these  large  prairies,  the  heat  being  terrible.  The 
nights  are  somewhat  pleasant,  but  the  days  perfectly  awful  with 
their  suffocating  atmosphere. 

If  you  wish  to  imagine  yourself  in  this  country,  just  get  into  a 
hot  oven,  and  if  there  be  any  difference,  it  will  be  in  favor  of  the 
oven.  Had  I  not  brought  an  umbrella  and  a  pair  of  goggles,  I  feel 
confident  I  never  would  have  reached  my  destination.  Saw  a  few 
full-bloods  along  the  road.  They  are  exceedingly  lazy  and  slovenly, 
a  thousand  times  more  so  than  the  negroes.  The  women  perform 
all  the  labor,  and  are  more  active  and  energetic  than  the  men.  The 


J02  JS    SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

majority  of  them  speak  no  English,  and  exhibit  no  disposition  to  be 
on  friendly  terms  with  the  whites.  They  are  the  most  independent 
people  in  the  world. 

August  5.  Arrived  at  the  Creek  Agency,  where  I  met  a  handsome 
reception  from  the  Indians.  There  was  a  rush  during  the  entire 
day  for  the  hotel  where  I  stopped.  Had  an  interview  with  D.  K 
Mclntosh,  son  of  General  Mclntosh,  of  Red-Stick  war  fame.  This 
gentleman,  with  Mr.  Stcdham,  were  appointed  Commissioners  to 
treat  with  the  Confederate  States.  They  are  both  refined  and  edu 
cated  gentlemen,  half-breeds. 

It  is  surprising  to  find  the  number  of  old  Indians  who  are  anxious 
to  enlist  for  the  war.  Their  enthusiasm  is  worthy  the  emulation  of 
our  own  people. 

In  the  large  crowd  who  soon  congregated  around  me,  I  was 
peculiarly  impressed  with  one  very  old  full-blood,  who  had  seen 
at  least  seventy  summers.  I  indulged  my  curiosity  by  asking  him, 
through  the  interpreter,  if  he  too  was  willing  to  fight  for  his  country. 
The  reply  was  as  laconic  as  it  was  characteristic  of  the  race.  He 
replied  :  "  /  am  a  man." 

The  full-bloods  dread  nothing  so  much  as  to  meet  death  in  their 
homes.  They  say  it  is  a  disgrace  for  a  man  to  die  at  home  like  a 
woman.  Hence  they  are  rejoiced  at  the  opportunity  to  distinguish 
themselves  on  the  battle-field,  or  of  meeting  an  honorable  death. 

Among  the  companies  eventually  mustered  into  service  were 
"William  F.  Macintosh's,  hideously  painted  with  all  the  insignia  about 
them,  to  proclaim  that  the  hatchet  had  been  dug  up ;  D.  N.  Mclntosh's, 
James  McIIenry's,  Samuel  Miller's,  Thlar  Keta's,  William  Mclntosh's, 
Herrod's,  Sam  Chicotah's,  Uchee  and  Cusetah. 

Having  accomplished  his  mission,  Captain  Brusle  returned  to 
Camp  Jackson  late  in  August,  when  he  was  furnished  with  a  leave 
of  absence  for  sixty  days,  at  the  expiration  of  which  period  he  re 
ported  to  the  regiment  at  Camp  McCulloch. 


CHAPTER    XIII. 

CAMP  M'CULLOCH. 

CAMP  McCuLLOCH  was  situated  on  a  rough  rocky  hill,  almost  sur 
rounded  by  valleys.  On  the  east  was  a  deserted  field,  well  adapted 
to  the  exercise  of  drilling.  Of  course  camps  were  always  selected 
in  Tiew  of  such  very  agreeable  contingencies.  The  first  order  issued 
for  the  enforcement  of  the  rules  and  regulations  of  camp  was  on  the 
28th  October,  which  the  men  considered  as  equivalent  to  being  in 
formed  that,  for  some  time,  at  least,  there  would  be  no  more  march 
ing.  Thus  once  more  commenced  the  regular  routine  of  camp-life. 
'  Twas  the  season  of  the  "  sere  and  yellow  leaf."  The  forest,  for 
some  time,  had  been  clothed  in  crimson  and  gold ;  all  those  varied 
and  gorgeous  hues  of  nature's  painting,  which  have  made  the 
Autumns  of  the  North  so  famed  in  the  poet's  song.  During  the 
march  from  Missouri,  through  the  deep  valleys  shut  up  by  high 
hills,  some  of  the  most  beautiful  landscape  views  that  the  eye  of 
man  ever  gazed  upon,  greeted  the  vision.  The  golden  sunlight 
glancing  along  the  hill-sides,  lighting  up  the  tree-tops  ornamented 
with  a  multiplicity  of  various-colored  leaves,  while  the  valley  be 
neath  slumbered  in  shadows,  formed  pictures  of  such  rare  and 
exquisite  coloring  that  few  of  the  way-worn  and  weary  soldiers  failed 
to  appreciate  by  expressions  of  enthusiastic  admiration.  The 
weather  duirng  this  period  was  delightful.  The  days  bright  and 
beautiful,  the  atmosphere  mild  and  pleasant,  but  at  night  cold  and 
frosty. 

Thanks,  however,  to  the  labor  and  love  of  fair  ones  "  far  awa','' 
we  were  abundantly  supplied  with  warm  and  comfortable  clothing, 
and  prepared  to  bid  defiance  to  the  approach  of  white-bearded 
winter.  On  the  31st  there  was  a  grand  review  of  the  regiment, 
muster,  and  general  policing  the  parade-ground.  The  regiment  also 
saw  the  munificent  gift  of  Tennessee  to  General  Price  pass  the  en 
campment.  This  present  from  the  "  Volunteer  State  "  consisted  of 
fourteen  wagons  loaded  with  camp  equipage  and  munitions  of  war, 


104  A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

and  twelve  pieces  of  artillery,  six  and  twelve-pounder  guns.  Every 
thing  about  them  perfectly  new  and  in  the  most  complete  order- 
The  horses  were  superb-looking  animals.  These  guns  were  the  finest 
that  had  yet  come  to  the  Western  army ;  each  one  has  point  and 
breech  sights.  We  thought,  as  we  gazed  at  them,  that  Tennessee 
would  soon  hear  something  pointed  from  these  messengers  of  war, 
whose  arrival  was  most  opportune,  and  would  be  greeted  with  wild 
demonstrations  of  joy  by  the  gallant,  noble,  and  patriotic  men  under 
General  Price. 

Novemler  1st  dawned  clear  and  pleasant.  Being  All-Saints'  day, 
the  usual  drills,  etc.,  were  omitted,  and  many  of  the  men  went  to  the 
houses  of  the  surrounding  farmers  to  visit  fair  acquaintances.  It 
was  wonderful  with  what  rapidity  the  men  ingratiated  themselves 
into  the  favor  of  these  same  sturdy  fanners  and  the  good  graces  of 
their  fair  daughters.  Yet  so  it  was,  and  they  were  frequent  visitors 
to  the  camp,  enjoying  the  scenes  of  a  soldier's  life,  as  well  as  their 
lively  sallies  of  wit  and  small  talk.  Many  amusing  incidents  arose 
from  this  intercourse,  one  of  which  we  here  chronicle  as  too  good  to 
be  lost.  We  have  already  stated  that  the  men  visited  the  farmers' 
dwellings,  whose  chief  charms  concentrated  in  some  fair,  bright-eyed 
lassie,  thus  exhibiting  that  fondness  for  feminine  society  and  com 
panionship  which  characterized  them  when  at  home.  A  worthy 
'  corporal  of  one  of  the  companies,  with  his  "  chums,"  comprising  an 
entire  mess,  had  been  frequent  visitors  at  a  lowly  cot  near  the  en 
campment,  where  two  really  handsome  young  ladies  resided.  Rising 
one  day  from  an  agreeable  tete-a-tete  over  the  dinner-table,  two  or 
three  of  the  men  considered  it  nothing  more  than  an  act  of  polite 
ness  to  invite  the  farmer  and  his  family  to  take  dinner  with  them 
the  following  day.  "I  shall  certainly  do  so  with  pleasure,"  was  the 
reply.  Nothing  more  was  thought  of  the  invitation  until  the  next 
morning  near  the  dinner  hour,  when  who  should  make  their  appear 
ance  in  camp  but  the  farmer,  wife,  daughters,  and  small  members  of 
the  family  (as  he  had  promised),  to  dine  with  the  "boys."  There 
was  nothing  prepared,  and,  worse  than  all,  no  provisions  on  hand 
with  which  to  prepare  a  suitable  dinner.  The  joke  was  soon  known 
all  over  camp.  The  men  strolled  negligently  about  the  unfortunate 
victims  in  groups  to  enjoy  and  add  to  their  discomfiture,  and  sly 
jokes,  witticisms,  and  suppressed  laughter  greeted  them  on  all  sides 
as  they  escorted  their  visitors  through  the  encampment.  They  de 
termined  not  to  be  made  the  subject  of  fun  for  the  whole  regiment. 
So,  "nil  desperandum,"  with  commendable  zeal  a  portion  of  the  mess 
made  preparations  for  dinner,  while  the  remainder  "played  the 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  105 

agreeable."  By  dint  of  borrowing  and  begging  a  really  nice  meal 
was  served  up.  The  mess,  for  once  in  the  history  of  the  company  to 
which  they  belonged,  were  excused  from  drill  that  day,  and  a  fashion 
able  meal  eaten  in  the  encampment. 

One  of  the  most  agreeable  features  of  Camp  McCulloch  was  the 
immense  flocks  of  wild  pigeons  that  roosted  near  this  spot.  The 
boys  killed  large  numbers  of  them,  and  feasted  "  right  royally  "  on 
their  flesh,  to  them  a  great  delicacy  after  living  for  months  on  fresh 
beef  and  salt  pork.  They  were  broiled,  stewed,  roasted,  baked  in 
pies,  in  fact,  prepared  in  every  conceivable  variety  of  style  which 
the  ingenuity  of  the  men  could  devise,  and  let  the  reader  be  informed 
that  a  soldier's  ingenuity  in  the  culinary  line  was  by  no  means  to  be 
made  sport  of. 

The  Major  rejoined  the  regiment  here  on  the  2nd,  and  was  most 
cordially,  enthusiastically,  and  warmly  greeted  by  the  men.  He 
brought  with  him  funds  in  specie  to  pay  off  Company  K  for  services 
rendered  in  the  State  previous  to  entering  the  Confederate  service. 
Of  course  to  this  company  his  arrival  was  a  source  of  great  rejoicing, 
aside  from  their  love  for  him  as  their  first  commander.  At  this  pe 
riod  General  Price's  army  was  at  Cassville,  while  McCulloch's  Division 
were  scattered  between  Camp  McCulloch  and  Springfield,  awaiting 
the  movements  of  the  enemy.  Here  the  General  issued  another 
stirring  appeal,  calling  the  Arkansians  "to  arms,"  in  view  of  the 
threatened  invasion.  On  the  6th,  Generals  McCulloch  and  Price  and 
Governor  Jackson  held  a  consultation  at  Keatsville  to  determine  the 
future  movements  to  be  made.  All  was  excitement  and  anxious  ex 
pectation  in  view  of  approaching  hostilities.  Colonel  Mclntosh's 
command,  from  this  date,  were  actively  engaged  in  devastating  the 
country  between  our  position  and  the  enemy.  Everything  that 
would  or  could  aid  them  was  destroyed — corn,  fodder,  oats,  hay  and 
wheat-stacks — while  the  roads  were  thoroughly  and  completely 
blockaded  by  felling  timber  across  them.  It  showed  how  imminent 
the  danger  was  considered.  A  good  joke  was  told  on  a  sergeant 
who  was  very  active  in  this  work  of  destruction.  Entering  one  day 
a  large  corn-field  near  a  dwelling,  he  exhibited  his  usual  zeal  in  ap 
plying  the  torch  to  the  grain.  As  he  was  setting  fire  to  a  corn-shock 
the  owner  exclaimed,  "  Look  out,  there's  a  gun  in  there  !"  The  words 
were  scarcely  spoken,  when  the  gun  exploded  in  the  stack  just  be 
hind  him,  the  ball  whizzing  by  in  dangerous  proximity  to  his  head. 
Dropping  his  torch,  he  turned  to  Col.  Melntosh  near  by,  exclaiming, 
"  Look  here,  Colonel,  I  don't  mind  being  killed  by  a  Dutchman,  but 
I'll  be  hanged  if  I  want  to  be  shot  at  by  an  infernal  corn-shock." 
5* 


106  A    SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

The  enemy  were  constantly  annoyed  and  harassed  by  the  cavalry, 
their  trains  captured,  their  pickets  driven  in,  and  their  army  kept  in 
constant  commotion,  in  anticipation  of  an  attack  from  the  Confeder 
ates. 

On  the  6th  the  regiment  cast  518  votes  for  the  President  and  Vice- 
President  of  the  Confederate  States ;  proper  returns  were  made  out 
and  forwarded  to  Louisiana.  Orders  were  also  read  out  for  all  lights 
to  be  extinguished  at  8  o'clock,  and  the  men  prepared  to  fall  in,  no 
noise  in  camp,  the  "long  roll  "  to  be  beaten  in  case  of  firing.  The 
excitement  caused  by  these  orders  was  too  intense  to  allow  any  rest 
that  night.  Stone's,  Greer's,  and  two  Indian  regiments  left  for  Kan 
sas.  The  Indians  were  half  naked — in  all  the  hideousness  of  their 
war  paint,  and  armed  with  long  rifles,  tomahawks,  and  scalping- 
knives,  apparently  as  savage  arid  untamed  as  when,  in  years  long 
passed,  they  alone  inhabited  the  American  continent. 

The  enemy  precipitately  left  Springfield  about  the  middle  of  No 
vember.  This  sudden  and  unexpected  move  disappointed  the  ex 
pectations  of  the  troops,  as  it  was  hoped  to  have  led  them  among 
the  hills  of  Arkansas,  and,  turning  upon  them,  utterly  to  have  routed 
them. 

The  regiment  was  in  splendid  health  and  spirits,  more  so  than  at 
any  time  during  its  formation.  The  men  passed  their  idle  hours  in 
foot-racing,  wrestling,  jumping,  singing,  and  dancing.  They  entered 
with  keen  relish  into  all  kinds  of  mischief.  One  would  scarcely 
have  supposed  that  they  had  just  been  facirfg  a  powerful  foe,  antici 
pating  a  fearful  and  deadly  combat.  To  all  intents  and  purposes  our 
fall  campaign  was  finished,  although  little  was  said  about  winter- 
quarters.  The  night  of  November  16th  there  was  a  light  fall  of 
sleet ;,  General  McCulloch  left  to-day  for  Springfield  with  4,000  cav 
alry ;  the  17th  was  a  dark,  cloudy,  gloomy  day,  but  not  cold.  We 
anticipated  now  the  opening  of  winter  weather ;  cold,  rain,  sleet, 
and  snow.  How  rejoiced  would  the  men  then  have  been  could  they 
have  been  transferred  to  some  field  of  active  service,  instead  of  re 
maining  inactive  and  confined  to  winter-quarters  during  the  coming 
months  !  Inured  to  hardship,  brave  and  daring,  the  raen  of  the  Third 
Regiment  would  have  infinitely  preferred  an  active  campaign  to  a 
winter  of  idleness.  But  as  the  fates  willed  so  must  its  destiny  be 
accomplished.  They  had  u  learned  to  labor,"  but  not  to  wait  while 
there  was  work  to  do,  or  a  blow  to  be  struck  for  the  independence 
of  their  country.  On  the  18th,  Major  W.  F.  Tunnard,  at  the  head 
of  150  men,  departed  at  12  o'clock  at  night,  with  three  days'  rations, 
to  clear  out  the  blockaded  roads  leading  to  Springfield.  Making  a 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  107 

march  of  ten  miles,  they  halted,  and  commenced  the  task  assigned 
them.  The  men  worked  with  the  same  alacrity  and  perseverance 
which  always  characterized  them.  Whether  work,  play  or  fight,  they 
entered  into  it  with  a  zeal  and  energy  truly  commendable.  Having 
accomplished  the  duty  assigned  them,  they  returned  to  camp  on  the 
afternoon  of  the  20th.  The  weather  at  this  time  was  very  wintry ; 
tremendous  storms  arose,  followed  by  bitter  cold  weather.  Every 
thing  became  frozen  solid  and  hard.  The  men  suffered  from  the 
weather,  tents  being  very  insufficient  protection  against  the  pene 
trating  air,  and  now  began  to  look  forward  to  more  comfortable 
quarters.  Advices  from  General  McCulloch  reached  the  command, 
giving  information  that  Siegel  was  at  Holla  with  a  portion  of  the 
Federal  forces,  and  Hunter  at  Sidalia  with  the  remainder.  General 
Price  was  marching,  with  his  army  largely  reinforced,  upon  the 
latter,  while  General  McCulloch,  using  Springfield  as  a  base  of  opera 
tions,  was  making  a  demonstration  on  Holla,  to  prevent  Siegel  from 
reinforcing  Hunter.  Such  was  the  condition  of  affairs  at  this  date. 
On  the  24th,  Major  Theodore  Johnson  and  Captain  Brusle  reached 
the  regiment.  The  weather  continued  too  cold  to  permit  the  men 
to  engage  in  their  customary  drills,  and  they  passed  the  time  prin 
cipally  by  indulging  in  their  favorite  amusement,  foot-ball.  The 
weather  was  fine  for  the  violent  exercise  of  this  rough  game.  No 
vember  25th  was  a  marked  day  in  the  army.  On  this  day  the  In 
fantry  Division  was  reviewed  by  Colonel  L.  Hebert.  Although  there 
were  present  no  "knights  of  the  quill"  to  write  about  the  manly 
appearance  and  military  -bearing  of  the  men ;  no  fair  ones  to  wave 
cambric  handkerchiefs  and  lend  the  charm  of  their  beauty  and 
presence  to  the  scene,  yet  was  the  display  none  the  less  creditable  to 
all  concerned.  The  soiled  and  worn  uniforms  of  the  men,  with  their 
determined  features,  unshaven  beard  and  unshorn  locks,  spoke  of 
war  in  all  its  grim  reality,  and  proclaimed  the  review  no  light 
pageantry  or  holiday  festival.  On  this  same  day  a  musical  club  was 
organized  in  the  regiment,  for  the  purpose  of  enlivening  the  coming 
winter  evenings  with  "  strains  of  harmonious  melody."  The  instru 
ments  were  two  flutes,  a  piccolo,  violin  and  guitar.  The  artillery 
and  cavalry  passed  camp,  en  route  for  their  winter- quarters.  On  the 
27th,  General  McCulloch  arrived  in  our  camp,  en  route  to  Richmond, 
Va.  The  personnel  of  this  remarkable  character  was  striking.  His 
face  was  nearly  concealed  with  brown  beard  and  moustache.  Keen 
gray  eyes  looked  with  piercing  glance  from  beneath  the  overshadow 
ing  eyebrows ;  a  brown  felt  hat  placed  firmly  on  his  head ;  black 
and  white  checked  overcoat,  pants  of  blue  army  cloth,  the  inside 


108  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

half  of  the  legs  being  lined  with  buckskin,  and  hands  incased  in 
soiled  buckskin  gauntlets,  with  not  a  mark  or  ornament  visible  to 
betoken  his  rank  or  attract  attention.  An  observer  would  little  have 
supposed  him  to  be  the  famed  and  dreaded  Ben  McCulloch. 

Though  late  in  the  season,  the  fall  races  took  place  on  this  clay,  an 
event  of  much  excitement  and  fun  among  the  men.  The  race-track 
was  a  lane  about  a  quarter  of  a  mile  long,  near  the  camp,  level  and 
smooth.  Bets  were  freely  offered  and  taken,  the  first  entry  being 
Dr.  Hebert  and  Captain  Richards,  two  noted  racers,  in  a  single 
dash  of  a  quarter.  Behold,  then,  the  scene.  The  chosen  judges  at 
the  stand ;  the  fences  lined  with  excited,  eager  men  ;  the  riders 
stripped,  and  handkerchiefs  tied  about  their  heads.  The  start  was 
made,  and  Richards,  amid  shouts  and  cheers,  won  the  race  by  four 
feet  exact  measurement.  The  next  race  was  between  Adjutant 
Hyams'  filly  and  Richards,  a  dead  heat.  The  race  being  repeated, 
Hyams'  filly  won  by  six  inches.  The  fourth  and  last  race  was 
between  two  ponies,  Brigham  and  Hedrick,  the  latter  being  success 
ful.  Such  was  one  of  the  scenes  of  November  27th.  We  chronicle 
another.  A  mysterious-looking  wagon  drove  up  to  the  encampment, 
which  seemed  to  immediately  attract  great  attention,  the  men 
thronging  around  it  in  numbers.  The  Argus-eyed  officers  were  on 
the  alert,  and  soon  made  a  descent  upon  the  contents  of  the  wagon, 
when,  ':  oh,  lud!"  it  was  discovered  to  contain  a  keg  of  whisky. 
How  could  the  boys  discover  such  stuff,  we  wonder  ?  Passing 
strange,  indeed.  The  contents  were  immediately  seized  and  confis 
cated  by  Lieutenant-Colonel  S.  M.  Hyams,  as  contraband  of  war. 
The  Lieutenant-Colonel  did  not,  then  and  there,  spill  the  whisky. 
Not  he.  He  had  too  keen  an  appreciation  of  what  was  good  for  a 
soldier  on  a  cold  day,  if  not  taken  in  too  large  doses.  The  men  were 
forthwith  summoned  to  his  quarters,  and  every  one  given  a  drink  of 
the  forbidden  nectar.  He  was  vociferously  cheered  for  his  kind 
remembrance  of  the  soldiers'  wants. 

On  the  evening  of  the  28th  a  daring  robbery  was  committed  in 
camp.  While  Quartermaster  Hardiman  was  eating  his  supper,  some 
person  or  persons  unknown  succeeded  in  abstracting  from  his 
quarters  his  trunk  containing  all  the  funds  belonging  to  the  regiment, 
and  papers.  It  contained  about  $5,000.  The  theft  was  quickly 
discovered,  and  details  immediately  made  to  scour  the  surrounding 
country,  and  an  eager,  energetic  search  instituted  for  the  capture  of 
the  thief  and  recovery  of  the  money.  The  trunk  was  soon  discov 
ered  by  a  squad  from  Company  K,  in  the  woods,  back  of  the  Quarter- 
piaster's  tent,  broken  open ;  but  so  hot  and  close  had  been  the 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  109 

pursuit,  that  the  robber  only  succeeded  in  partially  rifling  the  trunk 
of  its  contents.  He  obtained  about  $2,100,  which  was  in  an  envelope, 
leaving  behind  a  package  of  Confederate  bills,  and  some  silver, 
amounting  to  nearly  $3,000  more.  The  perpetrator  of  the  deed  was 
never  discovered.  It  was  evidently  committed  by  some  person  who 
knew  the  Quartermaster's  habits  and  the  place  where  he  kept  his' 
funds  for  paying  the  teamsters,  as  this  fund  alone  was  taken. 

Orders  were  issued  at  this  time  for  the  men  to  go  into  winter- 
quarters.  The  morning  of  November  29th  was  cold,  the  sky  over 
cast,  as  the  regiment  bade  adieu  to  Camp  McCulloch.  They  marched 
off  in  fine  spirits,  and  soon  accomplished  the  journey  of  sixteen 
miles,  stepping  it  off  at  a  lively  pace.  On  arriving  at  Cross  Hollows 
the  quarters  were  found  unprepared  for  their  reception,  and  so  they 
were  once  more  encamped  in  the  open  air,  exposed  to  the  inclemency 
of  the  weather.  Cross  Hollows  was  a  deep  valley,  running  east  and 
west,  shut  in  by  high  acclivities.  The  country  here  is  a  succession 
of  high,  rocky  hills,  and  deep,  dark  and  narrow  defiles.  Surrounded 
on  all  sides  by  these  frowning  hills,  the  camp  was  protected  from 
the  cold,  piercing  wintry  winds,  yet  it  also  seemed  like  imprisoning 
the  men  to  winter  them  here,  far  distant  from  any  society  or  regular 
communication  with  friends  at  home.  The  country  abounded  in 
wild  game  of  all  kinds,  such  as  bear,  deer,  quails,  pigeons,  ducks, 
turkey,  while  White  River,  distant  about  two  miles,  furnished  a  fins- 
place  for  fishing  and  skating.  Thus,  to  those  so  inclined,  amuse 
ments  could  be  found  to  while  away  the  wintry  days.  The  people 
in  the  neighborhood  were  rough  specimens  of  the  backwoods  Arkan- 
sians,  and  spoke  a  language  peculiarly  their  own — a  language  that 
would  puzzle  one  deeply  versed  in  all  the  idioms  of  the  King's  Eng 
lish  ;  as  for  instance  :  "  We'ens  is  going  to-morrow  ;  is  you'eiia  all 
going  ?"  Quartermaster  H.  asked  an  old  farmer  if  he  had  any  forage. 
"  No,"  he  replied,  "  I  hev  spore  all  I  kin  spare." 


CHAPTER    XIV. 

CAMP    BENJAMIN. 

THE  quarters  of  the  Louisiana  Regiment  were  situated  in  one  of 
the  valleys  of  Cross  Hollows,  protected  from  the  chilly,  wintry  winds 
by  high,  rocky  hills,  covered  wTith  a  heavy  growth  of  timber.  They 
were  substantial  wooden  buildings,  constructed  of  tongued  and 
grooved  planks  placed  upright,  with  roofing  of  the  same  material. 
The  flooring  was  the  very  best,  and  would  have  been  a  credit  to  the 
handsomest  of  private  residences.  Each  building  was  38  by  20  feet, 
divided  into  two  rooms  by  a  partition  meeting  in  the  centre  at  the 
chimney,  constructed  of  brick,  with  a  fire-place  in  each  room,  with 
a  smooth  brick  hearth.  The  privates'  quarters  were  in  two  parallel 
rows  facing  each  other,  while  the  officers'  ran  perpendicular  to  them, 
forming  a  square  at  one  end.  The  men  were  not  too  much  crowded, 
and  slept  in  berths  placed  one  above  the  other,  similar  to  those  in  a 
state-room  of  a  river  steamer.  The  utmost  contentment  and  good 
feeling  prevailed  among  the  men,  and  all  seemed  determined  to  en 
joy  the  days  of  the  winter  months.  With  abundant  material  for  the 
purpose,  they  soon  manufactured  chairs,  tables,  shelves,  and  mantle- 
pieces  over  the  fire-places.  Most  agreeably  were  they  disappointed 
at  their  situation  and  surroundings.  They  soon  gathered  about 
them  all  those  little  comfort's  and  conveniences  which  so  materially 
contributed  to  the  happiness  of  a  soldier's  precarious  existence. 
The  buildings  were  soon  named  according  to  the  inclination  of  the 
occupants,  and  a  stroll  through  the  quarters  exhibited .  tov  the  view 
grotesque  lettering,  telling  of  all  kinds  of  "  Dens,"  "  Retreats,"  and 
"  Quarters,"  while  you  could  easily  discover  "  Bull  Run,"  "  Leesburg," 
"  Belmont,"  and  other  streets.  "  Manassas  Gap  "  opening  into  "  Cap 
ital  Square,"  the  officers'  quarters.  Companies  A  and  K  were  ordered 
to  Fayetteville  as  provost-guard  for  that  place  during  the  winter 
months,  and  left  Camp  Benjamin  December  4th. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  Ill 

Behold  now  these  war-worn,  yet  jovial  soldiers,  preparing  to  pass 
the  winter  months  !  On  the  llth  of  December  the  scene  in  Camp 
Benjamin  was  one  of  peculiar  activity  and  bustle,  for  the  announce 
ment  had  been  made  that  the  buildings  were  ready  for  occupation. 
They  were  apportioned  to  the  companies,  and  the  men  eagerly  and 
zealously  proceeded  to  fit  them  up  for  permanent  residences.  The 
day  was  a  fine  one,  the  atmosphere  cool  and  bracing.  Halloo,  song, 
and  laughter  echoed  along  the  valley,  and  over  the  hill-tops,  while 
from  a  grist-mill  near  by  came  the  monotonous  splash  of  its  huge 
water-wheel,  mingled  with  the  clank  of  machinery  and  the  peculiar 
whirr  and  rumble  of  its  mill-stones.  The  frowning  hill-sides  there 
never  looked  down  upon  such  a  scene  of  bustle,  activity,  and 
hilarity. 

Thus  the  regiment  became  established  in  their  winter-quarters, 
surrounded  with  nearly  every  comfort  a  soldier's  heart  could  desire. 
There  was  a  sad  deficiency,  however,  in  the  Medical  Department, 
and  numbers  of  the  men  on  the  sick-list  with  diseases  so  dangerous 
to  those  unaccustomed  to  such  a  rigorous  climate.  These  sons  of 
a  sunnier  clime  felt  most  acutely  the  piercing  wintry  air,  and  from 
exposure  and  negligence  in  providing  against  the  constant  atmos 
pheric  changes,  made  themselves  victims  to  the  approach  of  insid 
ious  diseases. 

Captain  T.  L.  Maxwell,  A.  C.  S.,  arrived  in  camp  on  the  12th.  He 
was  most  cordially  greeted  by  the  men.  There  was  not  a  single 
member  of  the  regiment  who  did  not  love  Captain  Maxwell.  His 
constant  geniality  of  disposition,  general  kindness  and  affability, 
won  every  heart.  He  had  a  smile  for  all,  was  fond  of  a  good  joke, 
loved  the  bright  and  sunny  side  of  existence.  In  time  of  need  and 
danger  he  was  always  found  at  his  post,  a  true  soldier,  a  brave  man. 
No  wonder  he  found  firm  friends  in  the  regiment,  and  was  highly 
respected  deep  in  the  hearts  of  the  noble  men  whose  wants  he  supplied. 
To-day  Captain  M.  is  the  same  affable,  polite,  courteous,  smiling, 
warm-hearted  man,  and  loves  nothing  better  than  to  meet  some  of 
his  old  comrades  and  chat  over  the  days  of  "  auld  lang  syne."  On 
this  same  day  overcoats,  sent  to  the  regiment  by  Governor  Thomas 
O.  Moore,  arrived,  and  were  distributed.  Louisiana  seemed  never 
to  weary  in  supplying  the  necessities  of  her  gallant  sons. 

At  this  period  the  regiment  was  commanded  by  Major  "W.  F.  Tun- 
nard,  Colonel  Hebert  being  in  command  of  the  brigade,  with  head 
quarters  at  Fayetteville,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  Hyams  absent  on 
furlough.'  The  Major  instituted  a  system  of  the  strictest  discipline. 
Of  unbending  determination  and  strong  will,  as  already  stated,  he 


112  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

never  flinched,  from  the  prompt  execution  of  every  order  which  he 
promulgated.  lie  meant  what  he  said. 

On  the  14th  Private  L.  Devlin,  of  Company  E,  was  drummed  out 
of  the  regiment  for  stealing.  He  had  disobeyed  orders.  It  was  the 
first  punishment  in  the  regiment.  The  next  day  a  man  from  Fayette- 
ville  was  detected  in  selling  liquor  to  the  men,  and  swindling  them 
out  of  their  money  by  some  gambling  device.  He  was  turned  over 
to  the  tender  mercies  of  the  boys.  Eeady  for  every  species  of  mis 
chief,  they  did  full  justice  to  the  subject  thus  furnished.  They  so 
worked  on  the  man's  fears  that  he  imagined  he  was  about  to  be  hung, 
drawn  and  quartered.  Most  piteously  did  he  beg  to  be  released. 
His  tormentors  were  obdurate,  and  every  appeal  was  answered  with 
threats  and  scowls. 

A  sharp  rail  was  procured,  upon  which  he  was  mounted,  with  feet 
tied  together.  As  they  dangled  beneath,  two  stalwart  men  raised 
it  on  their  shoulders,  while  one  man,  on  each  side  of  the  victim,  with 
fixed  bayonet  pointed  at  him,  prevented  the  possibility  of  the  victim 
losing  his  balance,  and  away  they  all  went.  The  bearers  were 
rough  trotters ;  very,  indeed  ;  and  amid  shouts,  laughter  and  jeers, 
mingled  with  the  groans  of  the  victim,  he  was  rode  through  the 
whole  encampment.  Such  "  a  ridin'  on  a  rail"  no  mortal  ever  got. 
It  is  needless  to  state  "  that  man  never  visited  the  Louisianians 
again." 

On  the  21st  a  court-martial  was  organized  for  the  trial  of  petty 
offences.  President — Captain  O.  E.  Hull ;  Members — Lieutenant  S. 
D.  Russell  and  Lieutenant  Brigham  ;  Judge-Advocate — Captain  J. 
S.  Richards. 

The  next  day  there  was  a  heavy  fall  of  snow.  A  scene  of  up 
roarious  mirth  ensued.  There  was  a  general  "  ducking"  of  all,  irre 
spective  of  rank,  and  fierce  battles  with  snow-balls.  It  was  hazardous 
for  any  one  to  venture  in  sight,  as  he  would  be  most  unmercifully 
pelted  with  snow. 

On  the  24th  Lieutenant  J.  H.  Brigham  was  appointed  A.  A.  Q.  M., 
in  place  of  Captain  Hardiman,  absent  on  furlough.  At  this  period 
Lieutenant  W.  M.  Washburn,  Company  B,  was  the  Acting  Adjutant, 
S.  M.  Hyams,  Jr.,  having  received  the  appointment  of  Adjutant- 
General  of  the  brigade. 

Christmas  Eve,  the  holiday  festivities,  and  foaming  bowls  of  egg- 
nog,  with  raw  liquor,  seemed  as  plentiful  as  the  spring  water  near 
by.  Uproarious  hilarity  prevailed,  the  absent  were  toasted  in  many 
a  cup,  and  songs  sung  with  eventually  discordant  chorus.  The 
next  day  was  Christmas.  Soldiers  loved  to  dispense  hospitality, 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  113 

consequently  there  were  numerous  gatherings  of  convivial  spirits, 
and  egg-nog  was  drank  with  all  the  eclat  and  formality  of  a  draw 
ing-room  assembly,  or  hilariously  tossed  off  with  a  jovial  toast  and 
upraised  cups. 

The  1st  of  January  witnessed  a  new  spectacle  in  camp-life.  A 
tall  pole  was  formally  raised  in  front  of  Major  Tunnard's  quarters, 
and  the  regimental  flag  flung  to  the  breeze.  The  Major  made  a 
terse,  neat,  appropriate  and  stirring  speech  to  the  men  on  this  in 
teresting  occasion,  which  was  enthusiastically  and  vociferously 
cheered. 

At  this  time  the  boys  were  having  gay  times,  going  to  parties 
given  every  night  in  the  neighbors'  houses.  Doubtless  to  this  day 
the  buxom  Arkansas  lasses  in  that  vicinity  remember  the  Louis- 
ianians,  with  their  manly  bearing,  good  looks,  polished  ease  and 
elegance  of  manner  and  graceful  movements.  The  majority  of  these 
men  were  gentlemen,  once  moving  in  refined  society  at  home,  and 
nothing  more  delighted  them  than  to  exhibit  their  accomplishments 
before  the  astonished  gaze  of  these  same  plain,  honest,  country 
people. 

On  the  llth  of  January  the  regiment  was  paid  off. 

On  the  24th  the  mumps  broke  out  in  camp.  The  Major  had 
instituted  a  regimental  hospital,  which  he  daily  visited,  and  used 
every  exertion  to  have  the  sick  properly  cared  for.  This  wise  meas 
ure  was  highly  appreciated  by  the  men,  and  such  kindness  for  their 
welfare  and  comfort  implanted  in  their  strong  hearts  imperishable 
feelings  of  gratitude  and  respect.  Dr.  Lowther  here  officiated  as 
physician:  He  was  an  efficient  physician,  and,  as  a  man,  was  un 
surpassed  for  his  kindliness  and  affability. 

On  the  25th  orders  were  received  from  headquarters  for  the  regi^- 
mental  commanders  to  have  their  respective  commands  thoroughly 
prepared  and  organized  for  marching  immediately.  The  last  day 
of  January  found  the  ground  covered  with  a  heavy  fall  of  snow, 
and  the  anticipation  of  an  early  campaign  subsided. 

February  7.  Orders  read  at  dress  parade  for  company  drills,  four 
hours  each  day.  There  was  a  very  alarming  increase  of  the  sick. 
Drill !  What !  and  give  up  all  other  schemes  ?  Verily,  no  !  The 
life  of  ease  and  pleasure  which  had  made  the  hours  pass  so  smil 
ingly  away,  had,  undoubtedly,  incapacitated  the  men  from  doing 
soldier's  duty.  Was  it  really  so  ?  Let  us  see  how  the  sequel 
proves. 

February  11.  General  McCulloch  forbids  the  granting  of  furloughs 
or  leaves  of  absence  under  any  circumstances. 


114  *C  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

On  the  12th  an  order  was  received  to  have  all  the  mules  shod  and 
the  wagons  repaired  with  the  quickest  possible  dispatch,  and  for 
the  troops  to  hold  themselves  in  readiness  to  move  immediately. 

14th,  about  12  o'clock  at  night,  the  camp  was  alarmed  by  the  cry 
of  fire.  A  fearful  scene  of  excitement  ensued,  and  the  men  indis 
criminately  rushed  en  deshabille  into  the  open  air,  regardless  of  the 
biting  wintry  weather.  The  sentry-box  in  the  rear  of  the  hospital 
had,  by  some  means,  caught  fire,  and  was  burned  up.  No  other 
damage  done.  We  leave  imagination  to  picture  that  night-scene,  as 
mere  word-painting  could  not  do  the  subject  full  justice. 

The  16th  of  February  was  a  memorable  day  at  Camp  Benjamin. 
That  day,  at  1  o'clock,  an  order  was  received  to  cook  six  days' 
rations,  and  to  be  ready  to  move  in  one  hour. 

A  large  number  of  ladies  assembled  to  witness  the  departure,  and 
as  the  regiment  moved  away,  "  Good-bye,"  "  God  bless  you,"  was  on 
the  lips  of  all.  Marched  up  the  telegraph  road  and  reached  Price's 
Camp,  at  Trat's  store,  at  9  o'clock  p.  M.  The  enemy's  camp-fires 
were  visible  four  miles  distant. 

Few  of  the  men  took  either  blankets  or  clothing  with  them,  little 
dreaming  of  the  events  which  were  about  to  occur.  As  they  lay 
around  their  camp-fires,  they  thought  of  the  happy  days  at  Camp 
Benjamin;  how  halcyon  hours,  all  brimming  with  pleasure,  had 
winged  their  swift  flight ;  of  festivities  within  and  without  their  camp ; 
of  hunts,  rambles  into  the  country ;  of  the  abundance  and  plenty 
which  surrounded  them  there.  Ah  !  those  scenes  of  the  past,  sur 
rounded  with  the  frame-work  of  winter  sports,  had  fled  forever,  and 
now  a  reality,  to  contain  horrors  never  before  experienced  or  dreamed 
of,  hovered  over  them  with  its  restless,  sable  pinions.  Camp  Ben 
jamin,  a  long,  a  last  farewell  bade  we  to  thee ! 


CHAPTER  XV. 

WINTER  AT   FAYETTEYILLE. 

AWAY  once  more  on  the  tramp,  with  a  single  companion  as  com 
pany.  That  night  we  laid  under  a  hay-stack  and  slept  till  morn 
ing.  The  next  day  the  detachment  reached  Fayetteville  early  in  the 
morning,  and  were  given  the  college  building  for  quarters.  This 
was  a  fine  edifice — the  main  building  extending  east  and  west,  with 
two  wings  on  the  north  and  south  sides.  The  grounds  around  it 
were  beautfully  laid  out,  and  interspersed  with  fine  oak-trees. 

Here,  then,  we  must  rest  for  a  time.  The  boys  seemed  to  find 
Fayetteville  a  pleasant  little  town,  and  becoming  acquainted  with 
the  lassies  of  the  place,  entered  with  keen  relish  and  peculiar  zest 
into  all  the  amusements  of  the  season.  Balls  and  parties  were  no 
rarity,  while  the  young  men  exhibited,  by  their  attention  to  the 
ladies,  the  fact  that  a  soldier's  rough  experiences  had  in  nowise 
blunted  their  refinement  of  feelings  or  polish  of  gentlemanly  de 
portment,  or  that  the  charms  of  women  were  not  as  powerful  to 
attract  as  in  "  days  of  yore."  The  days  succeeded  each  other 
in  rapid  succession,  with  little  to  vary  their  monotony  save  such 
excitement  as  the  boys  manufactured  themselves.  There  was  the 
usual  guard-mounting  for  the  day's  duties,  roll-calls  and  evening 
parades.  At  night  the  men  usually  gathered  in  their  quarters  to 
laugh,  talk  and  joke  over  occurring  events,  often  ending  with 
an  uproarious  "  stag-dance."  The  members  of  Company  A  had  among 
them  a  fine  glee-club,  and  often  would  they  serenade  the  young  ladies 
of  the  place,  or,  gathering  in  front  of  the  quarters  during  the  pleasant 
evenings,  fill  the  quiet  air  with  their  harmonious  voices,  the  pleasant 
songs  floating  away  in  the  quietude  in  soft  echoing  refrains.  It  was 
not  an,  unusual  occurrence  to  have  their  vocal  music  returned  by  the 
appreciative  young  ladies  of  Fayetteville,  who  would  come  to  the 
fence  surrounding  the  quarters  and  charm  the  soldiers'  senses  with 
exquisite  songs,  warbled  in  the  clear  bell-like  tones  of  woman's  rich 

(115) 


116  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

voice.  The  fair  singers  were  never  rudely  interrupted  or  disturbed 
in  their  efforts  to  show  their  appreciation  of  the  compliments  paid 
them ;  but  when  the  song  was  finished  the  men  could  not  refrain 
always  from  expressing  their  admiration  and  gratification  by  a  burst 
of  applause. 

During  this  month  another  battery  of.  six  guns,  and  seventy-two 
wagons  loaded  with  supplies,  passed  through  the  place,  en  route  for 
Price's  army.  Two  of  these  guns  were  long,  rifled  cannon,  very 
old,  and  said  to  have  played  a  prominent  part  in  the  buttle  of  York- 
town — a  very  doubtful  supposition.  Siegel,  in  his  return  towards 
Springfield,  attempted  to  capture  these  supplies,  but  General  Price 
learning  his  intentions,  by  forced  marches,  reached  Springfield 
twenty-four  hours  in  advance  of  him,  and  thus  frustrated  his  de 
signs.  General  Price  having  received  a  commission  as  a  general  in 
the  Confederate  service,  soon  organized  out  of  the  State  Guard  a 
large  force — men  who,  like  all  the  first  volunteers,  went  into  the 
army  actuated  by  principle,  in  the  firm  belief  that  the  cause 
they  espoused  was  right  and  just.  This  was  the  nucleus  of  that 
splendid  body  of  men  who  became  so  famed ;  who  seemed  to 
be  strangers  to  fear,  and  with  reckless  daring  and  undaunted 
bravery  fought  all  through  the  war,  never  quailing  in  the  hour 
of  most  imminent  peril.  Between  these  troops  and  the  Louis- 
iauian  Regiment  grew  up  an  attachment  cemented  in  bonds  of 
blood,  and  which  no  dissensions,  trials  or  danger  could  ever  sunder. 
The  Louisianians  will  ever  keep  green  in  their  memory  their  associa 
tion  with  the  first  Missouri  Volunteers,  and  admire  their  heroic 
deeds  as  brave  men  should. 

On  the  21st  December  we  were  visited  by  a  cold,  freezing  rain 
storm,  which  at  night  changed  into  snow,  and  the  next  morning  we 
arose  to  find  the  ground  hidden  'neath  winter's  white  mantle,  while 
the  light  feathery  flakes  were  rapidly  descending  from  the  dark 
clouds  o'erhead.  The  sun  rose  the  next  day  on  a  wintry  scene  of 
dazzling  beauty,  such  as  the  eye  seldom  gazes  on.  The  air  was 
sharp  and  biting,  the  ground  beautiful  in  its  smooth  whiteness, 
while  the  limbs,  twigs  and  boughs  of  the  trees  glittered  and  glis 
tened  as  the  sun  shone  upon  their  crystal  covering  of  ice  as  if  in 
cased  in  diamonds.  It  was  one  of  winter's  most  magnificent  pic 
tures,  calling  forth  unbounded  expressions  of  admiration  from  those 
who  had  never  witnessed  such  a  spectacle.  It  was,  indeed, 
something  new  to  those  who  had  been  accustomed  only  to  the 
softly-smiling  skies  and  balmy  atmosphere  of  a  land  filled  with 
orange  groves  and  budding  blossoms.  Thus  gathering  around  him 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  117 

gorgeous  wintry  scenes  of  nature's  unrivaled  paintings,  the  old 
year  was  rapidly  passing  away.  Christmas  was  generally  observed 
and  celebrated  by  the  detachment.  Early  in  the  morning  the  bell 
over  our  quarters  commenced  a  rapid  tintinnabulation  not  customary 
to  it,  accompanied  by  the  dread  cry  of  "Fire!''  "Fire!"  There 
was  rolling,  tumbling  and  jumping  out  of  one,  two  and  three-story 
berths  ;  a  general  scramble  for  clothing,  intermingled  with  all  kinds 
of  cries  and  exclamations.  "  Where  are  my  shoes  ?"  "  Who  has 
my  pants  ?"  "  Where  in  the  devil  is  my  coat  ?"  etc.,  etc.  We  went 
out  of  the  only  door,  from  which  a  flight  of  steep  steps  led  to 
the  ground,  at  the  imminent  risk  of  broken  necks  and  limbs,  some 
clothed,  others  in  deshabille,  hatless  and  shoeless— a  motley  crowd, 
indeed— only  to  find  a  pleasant  moonlit  morn  and  nothing  astir. 
We  had  been  incontinently  "  sold"  by  some  soldier  who  remembered 
it  was  Christmas  morning  and  loved  a  practical  joke.  Many  en 
joyed  the  fun,  while  others  commenced  the  day  by  using  the  king's 
English  in  a  manner  not  taught  in  the  Bible. 

The  men  were  consoled,  however,  by  an  early  invitation  to  Captain 
Viglini's  quarters,  where  they  drowned  the  remembrance  of  their 
early  disturbance  in  a  "  smile"  of  delicious,  fragrant,  all  hot,  piping 
hot  egg-nog,  "  nidding  and  nodding"  at  each  other  over  the  favorite 
beverage  of  the  holidays. 

Of  the  many  toasts  drank,  we  give  the  following :  "  Our  first 
Christinas  in  the  Southern  Confederacy.  When  bright-winged  peace 
shall  have  dispelled  the  dark  gloom  of  war,  may  we  each  sit  down 
'neath  the  shadow  of  his  own  vine  and  fig-tree  to  relate  the  inci 
dents  of  the  Western  Campaign,  remembering  this  as  one  of  the 
most  pleasant."  An  admirer  of  himself  abroad  and  the  ladies 
at  home,  gave  "  Company  K — first  in  peace  at  home,  first  in  war 
abroad,  and  first  in  the  hearts  of  the  ladies."  The  conceited  raga 
muffin  ! 

Permission  having  been  obtained,  during  the  morning  one  of 
SiegeFs  captured  six-pounder  pieces  was  dragged  from  the  arsenal 
and  made  to  thunder  forth  its  deep-toned  voice  in  honor  of  the 
occasion.  When  last  we  heard  its  tone  it  spoke  only  to  proclaim 
the  corning  storm  of  death  and  ruin  which  it  was  sending  amid 
battling  hosts.  Now  it  caused  the  hills  and  villages  to  re-echo  in 
honor  of  the  glad  tidings  borne  from  heaven  to  earth  by  angels  pro 
claiming  "  Peace  on  earth,  good-will  to  men.1'  Then  its  thunder 
proclaimed  war ;  now  it  spoke  of  peace.  How  strange  the  contrast ! 
The  soldiers  on  duty  were  not  forgotten,  for  some  kind  lady  friends 
sent  them  a  repast  of  all  manner  of  dainties  and  substantial,  and 


118  A   SOUTHERN   EECOED. 

once  again  they  feasted  most  sumptuously  and  royally.  The  festiv 
ities  of  the  day  ended  in  a  large  ball  at  the  court-house,  where 
assembled  the  beauty  of  Fayetteville — the  gay  laddie  and  fair 
lassie — w]10  "  tripped  it  on  the  light  fantastic  toe"  until  the  "  wee 
sma'  "  hours  of  the  succeeding  morn.  The  boys  enjoyed  their  Christ 
mas,  although  not  greeted  by  the  smiling  faces  and  cheerful  voices 
of  "  loved  ones  at  home." 

The  weather  was  usually  very  cold,  but  the  year  went  out  in  mild 
ness  and  serenity.  The  gray-haired  '61  was  laid  in  the  grave  of  the 
Past,  and  from  its  ashes,  Phoenix  like,  sprang  into  existence  the  new- 
bom  '62.  The  past  year  had  been  freighted  with  momentous  events  — 
the  ruin  of  the  greatest  of  republican  governments  being  the  chief- 
est.  The  mind  in  vain  attempted  to  grasp  futurity  as  we  stood  upon 
the  threshold  of  the  new  year ;  in  vain  endeavored  to  penetrate  its 
hidden  folds  and  gather  there  the  record  of  our  future  destiny.  No 
light  came  from  its  obscurity,  and  weak  man  must  go  blindly  for 
ward,  and  with  his  pcmy  arm  and  impotent  strength  carve  out  the 
inevitable  decrees-  of  fate.  The  new  year  opened  bright  and  prom 
ising  for  the  success  and  hopes  of  the  Young  Republic,  born  under 
such  a  fierce  baptism  of  blood.  Yet  the  war  was  only  in  its  incipi- 
ency,  only  the  beginning  of  the  tremendous  proportions  which  it 
afterwards  assumed.  Missouri  was  in  a  deplorable  condition,  filled 
with  scenes  of  violence  and  dark  crime,  and  her  people  at  this  period 
were  pouring  through  Arkansas  in  a  continuous  stream,  moving  with 
their  household  goods,  negroes  and  stock  to  Texas,  where  they  ex 
pected  to  find  homes,  security  and  peace. 

Col.  Mclntosh  commenced  the  new  year  by  gaining  a  decisive  vic 
tory  over  some  disaffected.  Indians,  under  the  leadership  of  a  chief 
known  as  Opothleyhola.  This  decisive  victory  was  gained  by  the 
combined  cavalry  forces  of  McCulloch's  Brigade,  comprising  Texans, 
Arkansians,  and  Indians.  A  general  court-martial  was  also  in  session 
nearly  all  the  winter,  disposing  of  the  numerous  cases  brought  for 
trial  for  various  offences  against  military  regulations  and  discipline. 
This  court-martial  was  convened  in  accordance  with  the  following 
order : 

HEADQUARTERS  SECOND  BRIGADE  J 
Special  Order, )  December  13^,  1861.  ( 

No.  7.         C 

A  general  court-martial  is  hereby  appointed  to  meet  at  Fayetteville, 
Ark.,  on  the  26th  day  of  December,  1861,  or  as  soon  thereafter  as 
practicable,  for  the  trial  of  such  persons  as  may  be  brought  before  it. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  119 

DETAIL   OF  THE   COURT. 

Colonel  McRae,  of  McRae's  Regiment :  Major  Matheson,  of  Colonel 
Rector's  Regiment;  Captain  J.  S.  Richards,  of  Third  Regiment 
Louisiana  Infantry ;  Captain  W.  T.  Hall,  do. ;  Captain  J.  B.  Gilmore, 
do.;  Captain  McCulloch,  of  Colonel  McNair's  Regiment;  Captain 
Provence,  of  Provence's  Battery ;  Captain  Hawkins,  of  Whitfield's 
Battalion;  Captain  W.  R.  Bradfute,  Chief  of  Artillery;  Captain 
Griffith,  of  Colonel  Rector's  Regiment;  Captain  Swaggerty,  of  Colo 
nel  Hill's  Regiment ;  Lieutenant  Davis,  of  Goode's  Battery. 

Captain  Charles  A.  Brusle,  of  the  Third  Regiment  Louisiana  In 
fantry,  is  hereby  appointed  Judge-Advocate  of  the  Court.  No  other 
officers  than  those  named  can  be  assembled,  without  manifest  injury 
to  the  service. 

By  order  COLONEL  Louis  HEBERT, 

S.  M.  HYAMS,  Junr.,  Commanding  Second  Brigade. 

Adjutant  Second  Brigade. 

The  author  was  the  provost  marshal  of  this  court,  and  made  many 
long  rides  to  Bentonville,  Camp  Benjamin,  and  Fort  Reagan,  in  carry 
ing  out  the  bequests  of  the  court. 

The  8th  of  January  was  celebrated  by  the  detachment  firing  a 
national  salute.  The  day  is  enshrined  in  every  Louisianian's  heart, 
and  we  could  not  pass  it  by  in  silence. 

The  Major  having  received  money  on  the  9th  to  pay  the  troops 
for  four  months,  and  being  appointed  paymaster,  visited  our  quarters 
both  to  see  the  men  and  instruct  the  officers  to  prepare  pay-rolls. 
The  intelligence  was  most  joyfully  received,  for  the  men  were  all 
sadly  in  need  of  funds.  At  this  time  there  existed  a  great  deal  of 
ill-feeling  regarding  the  future  leadership  of  the  army.  General 
Price's  claims  were  advocated  by  a  portable  paper  which  went  with 
the  Missouri  forces  and  was  edited  by  J.  "W.  Tucker,  a  bitter,  un 
compromising  opponent  of  General  McCulloch.  This  called  into 
existence  a  paper  named  the  u  War  Bulletin,"  edited  by  J.  H.  Brown, 
Esq.,  a  talented  gentleman,  well  known  in  Texas,  and  an  enthusiastic, 
devoted  Mend  of  General  McCulloch.  It  was  a  matter  to  be  re 
gretted  that  these  differences  arose,  or  that  the  Southern  press  should 
impugn  the  motives  of  General  McCulloch,  attacking  his  character 
as  a  man  and  a  General.  We  do  not  intend  or  desire  in  this  History 
to  enter  upon  the  merits  or  demerits  of  this  controversy.  Yet  we 
cannot  refrain  from  stating  in  behalf  of  McCulloch  (who  now  fills 
a  soldier's  honored  grave),  that  he  was  generally  beloved,  nay,  idol 
ised,  by  the  Louisianians  and  Texans,  and  the  volunteers  under  him 


120  A"  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

"had  tmdiminished  confidence  in  his  heroism,  skill  and  ability, 
having  been  with  him  and  witnessed  his  indefatigable  perseverance 
and  labors  in  the  face  of  a  thousand  difficulties."  Let  this  contro 
versy  end  as  it  would,  the  men  then  felt  that  it  was  a  matter  of  small 
moment  who  commanded,  so  that  the  brave  and  chivalrous  sons  of 
the  South,  be  they  Texans,  Louisianiaus,  Arkansians  or  Missourians, 
were  united  heart  and  soul,  determined  to  drive  the  Northern  in 
vaders  out  of  Missouri.  General  Price  was  doing  a  noble  work  in 
Missouri,  enlisting  her  sons  in  the  Confederate  service,  thus  forming 
a  permanently  organized  army,  which,  becoming  drilled  and  disci 
plined,  would  be  better  prepared  to  meet  the  foe.  McCulloch's  Di 
vision  in  the  latter  part  of  January  was  composed  of  fourteen  regi 
ments,  three  battalions,  one  independent  company,  and  four  light  ar 
tillery  companies,  all  in  excellent  health  and  splendid  spirits.  Such 
was  the  condition  of  affairs  when  rumors  began  to  circulate  pointing 
to  an  early,  active  Spring  campaign,  and  the  men  became  feverish 
with  excitement.  General  Price  was  reported  to  have  received  the 
appointment  of  Brigadier-General.  General  McCulloch  was  to  return 
to  the  command  of  his  old  brigade,  and  all  differences  merged  in  the 
leadership  of  Major-General  Earl  VanDorn.  On  the  23d  of  January 
General  Price  sent  a  messenger  to  Fayetteville,  that  the  enemy  were 
advancing  upon  him  in  large  force ;  that  he  was  unable  to  hold  his 
position.  The  Federals  had  been  concentrating  their  forces  for  some 
time  previous  to  this  date,  but  it  was  scarcely  anticipated  that  they 
would  open  the  campaign  so  early,  ere  the  winter  had  begun  to  break 
up.  His  dispatch,  therefore,  was  astounding,  yet  not  altogether  un 
expected.  The  intelligence  was  immediately  telegraphed  to  General 
Mclntosh,  and  orders  issued  by  Colonel  Hebert  to  the  troops  to  pre 
pare  to  move  at  an  early  date.  The  news  was  received  by  the  men 
with  much  enthusiasm  at  this  prospect  of  once  again  meeting  the 
foe,  though  it  required  them  to  leave  their  comfortable  winter-quar 
ters,  and  make  a  long,  tedious  march  in  the  inclement  weather. 
While  in  expectation  of  receiving  marching  orders,  Providence  most 
opportunely  interposed  its  mysterious  hand  to  stay  the  fierce  tide  of 
war.  It  was  a  fortunate  circumstance  both  for  the  comfort  as  well 
as  safety  and  health  of  the  troops.  For  several  days  previous  to  the 
28th  it  had  been  dark,  damp,  and  cloudy  weather ;  on  this  day  it 
commenced  raining  briskly,  and  continued  all  day  until  night,  when 
it  suddenly  turned  cold ;  the  rain  froze  on  the  ground  as  it  fell,  then 
turned  into  sleet,  and  eventually  into  a  heavy  blinding  snow- storm. 
The  next  morning  the  white  flakes  still  descended,  until  the  ground 
was  covered  to  the  depth  of  fifteen  inches.  It  was  winter  indeed 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  121 

now,  and  all  hopes  of  an  expedition  into  Missouri  ended,  as  the 
roads  were  rendered  impassable  for  many  days  to  come.  Perhaps  a 
more  grand,  gloomy  as  well  as  beautiful  picture  of  winter  scenery 
was  never  witnessed  than  after  this  storm.  The  sky  had  been  ob 
scured  by  heavy  gray  clouds  in  bold  outline,  against  which  were  de 
fined  the  delicate  tracery  of  limbs  and  twigs  of  the  trees,  covered 
with  an  incrustation  of  ice,  and  filled  with  long,  pendant  icicles, 
while  the  black  trunks  stood  out  in  fine  contrast  with  the  white 
mantle  of  snow  covering  the  earth  beneath.  The  sun  shone  out 
brightly,  making  the  scene  a  picturesque  one  truly.  The  trees  glit 
tered  with  their  crystallization,  reflecting  the  rays  with  innumerable 
sparkles  and  prismatic  coloring,  while  the  undulating  hills  presented 
the  appearance  of  burnished  silver.  Of  course  the  Louisianians  had 
an  immense  amount  of  sport  out  of  this  snow-storm,  to  many  of  them 
an  entirely  new  spectacle.  They  snow-balled  each  other  with  des 
perate  energy,  and  finally  gathering  into  a  strong  band,  commenced 
an  indiscriminate  "  ducking  "  of  every  one  with  whom  they  came  in 
contact.  This  process  consisted  in  seizing  the  victims  and  rolling 
them  in  the  snow,  completely  covering  them  with  the  light  substance. 
Perhaps  such  a  scene  of  winter  sport  was  never  witnessed  in  Fayette- 
ville,  as  then  occurred.  Colonels,  majors,  captains,  lieutenants,  mer 
chants,  lawyers,  doctors,  and  citizens,  all  alike  shared  the  same  fate. 
It  was  something  rare  and  amusing  to  see  a  squad  of  privates  in  full 
chase  after  a  colonel  with  shouts  and  laughter,  or  dragging  a  major 
from  some  hiding-place,  only  to  give  them  a  good  rolling  in  the  snow. 
It  was  a  useless  undertaking  to  attempt  to  escape.  The  men  re 
spected  neither  persons  nor  places  in  their  uproarious  sport.  Gray 
hairs  alone  saved  the  victim.  They  even  made  a  descent  upon 
Colonel  (now  acting  General)  Hebert's  headquarters.  They  found 
the  house  closed,  but  they  were  not  to  be  cheated  out  of  a  single 
victim.  The  Colonel's  dignity  and  position  could  not  protect  him 
now.  He  held  a  parley  with  the  leaders,  and  finally  compromised 
the  matter  by  inviting  the  whole  party  into  his  fine  quarters  and 
giving  them  some  "  refreshments,"  very  acceptable,  indeed,  to  the 
boys,  after  their  violent  exercise,  and  wet  as  they  were  from  the  snow. 
Every  one  joined  in  the  sport  with  perfect  good-humor.  General 
McCulloch's  whole  staff  shared  the  fate  of  every  one  else.  Doubtless 
many  years  will  roll  away  ere  the  good  people  of  Fayetteville  will 
forget  this  winter-day  frolic  of  the  Louisianians. 

There  was  no  certainty  now  of  an  early  campaign.     The  enemy 
had   returned   to   Holla,  having   suffered   intensely   from  the  cold 
weather.     The  roads  were  impassable,  and  would  be  so  for  many 
6 


122  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

days  to  come.  Below  they  were  almost  completely  blockaded  with 
trees,  broken  down  by  the  weight  of  ice  which  had  accumulated  on 
them.  A  strong  appeal  was  made  to  the  Third  Begiment  to  re-enlist 
at  the  expiration  of  their  approaching  term  of  service ;  but  the  men 
expressed  the  determination  of  returning  home  rather  than  serve  in 
a  campaign  in  this  section.  There  was  a  general  desire  and  dispo 
sition  to  serve  the  country,  but  they  wished  a  different  field  of  opera 
tions.  The  regiment  already  had  a  reputation  that  extended  from 
the  Missouri  River  to  the  most  distant  boundaries  of  the  Confederacy, 
and  the  brave  spirits  who  composed  the  organization  felt  no  desire 
to  remain  idly  at  home  while  their  country  needed  their  strong  arms 
and  stout  and  willing  hearts.  Their  campaigns  had  already  been 
severe,  and  they  felt  as  if  they  needed  rest  and  the  companionship 
of  friends  and  relatives  from  whom  they  had  so  long  been  sepa 
rated.  The  course  of  events,  however,  determined  their  destiny, 
without  any  action  of  themselves,  as  the  sequel  will  show. 


CHAPTER    XYI. 

THE     SPRING     CAMPAIGN,    1862. 

EARLY  in  February  rumors  were  in  circulation  that  General 
Price  was  in  full  retreat  from  Springfield,  closely  pursued  by  a 
large  and  powerful  foe  under  command  of  General  Hunter. 

On  Saturday,  the  15th  of  February,  these  rumors  were  confirmed, 
as  courier  after  courier  arrived  asking  for  assistance. 

General  Price  was  really  in  the  State  of  Arkansas,  daily  fighting 
the  enemy's  advance-guard  like  a  tiger  at  bay.  On  Saturday 
afternoon  the  detachment  left  Fayetteville  to  join  Price's  army, 
marching  all  night,  and  joining  the  regiment  early  the  next  morn 
ing.  They  crossed  Cross  Hollows  at  a  double-quick,  lustily  cheer 
ing  as  they  hastened  towards  the  foe.  Everything  was  in  confu 
sion  at  winter-quarters,  the  troops  having  left  behind  every 
thing — clothing,  etc. — in  their  sudden  departure  and  eager  haste. 
Along  the  road  leading  to  Fayetteville  was  a  scene  that  beggared 
description.  Long  trains  of  wagons,  loaded  with  army  stores,  pro 
visions,  arms,  tents,  utensils,  etc. ;  carriages  and  buggies  filled  with 
women  and  children,  whose  blanched  faces  betokened  their  fears ; 
horsemen,  footmen,  little  children  and  delicate  young  women  hasten 
ing  away  from  the  simoom  blast  of  war's  desolation.  The  scene 
was  heightened  as  we  encountered  Price's  army.  McCulloch's  in 
fantry  on  hand  at  this  trying  juncture  consisted  of  the  Louisiana 
Regiment,  McRae's  and  McNair's  Arkansas  regiments,  who  joined  the 
retreating  army  only  to  be  turned  back  by  the  retrograding  column. 
All  day  Monday  we  fell  back  slowly,  but  in  good  order.  In  the 
afternoon  the  advance- guard  of  the  enemy  made  a  rush  on  our  rear, 
and  for  nearly  an  hour  a  desperate  fight  ensued,  in  which  artillery 
was  freely  used  on  both  sides.  A  line  of  battle  was  formed,  in  anti 
cipation  of  a  general  engagement.  The  Confederates  succeeded  in 
repulsing  the  enemy,  our  loss  being  three  killed  and  seventeen 
wounded ;  enemy's  about  forty.  The  dash  of  the  Federal  cavalry 
was  so  impetuous  that  they  became  intermingled  with  our  troops, 


124  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

and  there  was  a  free  use  of  sabres  and  small-arms.  They  could  not 
stand,  however,  the  deadly,  fire  of  the  Missouri  an  shot-guns.  Mon 
day  our  forces  reached  their  winter-quarters,  to  spend  the  night, 
while  Price's  army  occupied  Cross  Hollows,  distant  two  and  a  half 
miles.  Young's  Texas  Regiment  arrived,  and  camped  with  the 
regiment.  The  next  day  we  marched  to  Cross  Hollows  and  camped 
in  an  open  field  in  the  valley,  shut  in  by  the  high  hills.  This  day 
Rector's  and  Mitchell's  Arkansas  Regiments  joined  the  army.  The 
latter  regiment  had  marched  forty-five  miles  in  twenty-four  hours 
without  halting.  General  McCulloch  also  arrived,  and  was  met 
with  such  a  storm  of  enthusiasm  as  seldom  greets  any  man.  Such 
a  deafening  cheer  as  thevLouisianians  gave  him  attested  their  satis 
faction.  They  were  wild  with  joy,  throwing  up  their  hats  and 
elevating  them  on  the  points  of  their  bayonets  in  their  enthusiasm. 
General  McCulloch  bared  his  head,  and  while  his  eagle  eye  lighted 
up  with  an  unw  onted  fire,  remarked,  "  Men,  I  am  glad  to  see  you ;" 
a  greeting  which  was  responded  to  with,  a  heartfelt  burst  of  ap 
plause.  The  men,  on  account  of  the  suddenness  of  the  demand  for 
their  services  and  hasty  departure  from  their  .quarters,  were  without 
tents,  blankets  and  provisions.  That  night  they  laid  down  on  the 
frozen  ground,  around  huge  fires,  to  snatch,  if  possible,  a  short 
sleep  while  expecting  the  enemy.  To  add  to  the  hardships  which 
they  had  encountered,  it  commenced  a  cold,  freezing  rain,  which 
continued  nearly  all  night.  Some  few,  fortunate  in  the  possession 
of  blankets,  slept  through  it  all,  their  covering  becoming  a  mass  of 
ice,  from  which  they  had  to  be  released  by  the  assistance  of  their 
friends;  but  the  majority  of  the  troops  gathered,  in  shivering 
groups,  around  their  camp-fires.  A  line  of  battle,  under  General 
McCulloch's  energetic  supervision,  was  formed,  and  soon  every  hill 
side  glistened  with  bayonets,  and  batteries  frowned  upon  every 
avenue  of  approach.  While  thus  awaiting  the  enemy's  approach, 
they  suddenly  appeared  in  Bentonville,  on  our  extreme  left  flank, 
taking  possession  of  the  quarters  of  Rector's  regiment.  Two  of 
their  scouts  were  also  captured  on  White  River,  on  our  extreme 
right,  indicating  a  design  to  flank  our  position.  Of  course  they 
destroyed  the  greater  portion  of  the  clothing,  etc.,  of  Rector's  men, 
besides  killing  some  of  the  citizens  and  committing  other  outrages. 
On  Tuesday  morning,  very  early,  our  army  began  to  retreat,  in  the 
midst  of  a  bitter  cold  storm  of  sleet  and  snow.  The  road  was  a 
mass  of  solid  ice,  slippery  and  as  hard  as  rock.  Yet  the  Louisianian 
Regiment  began  the  march  with  buoyant  spirits,  joking,  laughing 
and  singing  as  they  tramped  over  the  slippery  road.  All  day  long 


THIED   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  125 

the  weary  march  continued,  while  the  beards  of  the  men  became 
white  with  their  frozen  breath,  even  the  water  in  the  canteens  turn 
ing  into  ice.  Weary,  foot-sore,  hungry  and  cold,  they  arrived  at 
Fayetteville  on  the  night  of  the  19th,  only  to  find  nearly  every  house 
.  deserted  by  the  women  and  children,  while  every  man  had  shouldered 
his  rifle  for  the  deadly  strife.  The  Northern  heavens,  lighted  up 
with  a  reddening  glow,  telling  the  men  that  their  winter-quarters 
had  been  given  to  the  flames,  to  prevent  their  occupation  by  the 
enemy,  proclaiming  also  the  destruction  of  their  clothing,  utensils 
and  equipage.  The  scene  was  by  no  means  a  consoling  one,  under 
such  reflections.  Thus,  as  these  fine  and  comfortable  quarters 
melted  away  into  ashes,  it  entailed  on  the  regiment  the  loss  of 
nearly  everything  they  had,  besides  a  large  quantity  of  quartermaster 
and  commissary  stores  and  forage.  The  regiment  remained  at 
Fayetteville  on  the  20th,  tlie  detachment  compdsed  of  Companies  A 
and  K  occupying  their  old  quarters,  while  Price's  trains,  artillery,  in 
fantry  and  cavalry  poured  through  the  place  in  a  continuous  stream. 

The  scene  in  Fayetteville  beggared  all  description.  Stores  broken 
open  and  rifled  of  their  contents,  private  residences  left  unoccupied, 
invaded  and  pillaged,  while  commissary  stores  were  scattered  in 
wanton  profusion  in  every  direction.  Upwards  of  500,000  pounds 
of  pork — bacon,  shoulders  and  hams— were  distributed  among  the 
retreating  and  half-starved  troops.  Every  man  and  horse  had  a 
share  of  the  burden,  while  it  was  scattered  in  every  direction  over 
the  streets  and  on  the  side-walks.  The  men  even  made  fires  of  it  to 
warm  their  chilled  and  freezing  bodies.  But  why  dwell  on  this 
gloomy  picture  of  war  ?  The  destruction  entailed  on  individual  and 
Government  property  was  occasioned  by  a  want  of  transportation. 

General  Price  had  conducted  a  masterly  retreat,  protecting,  as  he 
did,  a  train  of  3,500  wagons,  and  moving  over  50  pieces  of  artillery 
without  loss.  Through  icy  streams,  over  rough  roads,  in  the  midst 
of  winter,  and  pursued  closely  by  a  powerful  and  victorious,  foe,  had 
he  fallen  back,  step  by  step,  over  the  plains  of  Missouri,  among  the 
hills  of  Arkansas,  with  complete  success.  When  the  Louisiana 
Kegiment  reached  the  retreating  column  they  were  greeted  on  all 
sides  with  enthusiastic  acclamations  by  the  Missourians.  "  Here's 
the  Louisiana  Kegiment;''  "It's  all  right  now;"  "  Give 'em  h— 11, 
boys,*'  etc.,  were  some  of  the  expressions  used,  while  the  fatigued 
troops  seemed  to  gather  new  strength  and  energy  from  their  arrival. 
It  spoke  volumes  for  the  confidence  reposed  in  the  regiment,  the 
reputation  they  had  gained  for  untiring  energy,  unfaltering  nerves 
and  distinguished  bravery. 


126  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

The  enemy  had  one  of  the  largest,  best  disciplined,  and  equipped 
armies  yet  sent  into  the  field,  and  the  object  of  our  retreat  was  to  draw 
them  as  far  from  their  base  of  supplies  as  possible  among  the  hills 
of  Arkansas,  and  give  them  battle  in  a  position  of  our  own  choosing. 
The  immense  number  of  horses  in  the  army,  and  the  scarcity  of 
forage,  rendered  it  necessary  that  the  Southern  army  should  fall  back 
so  as  to  obtain  access  to  supplies  more  conveniently,  and  to  gain  a 
position  where  the  enemy  could  not  penetrate  to  the  rear.  Bastou 
Mountain  was  looked  upon  as  the  stand-point,  the  proper  position, 
wThere  the  undisciplined  troops  of  the  command  would  be  more  than 
a  match  for  the  superiority  of  the  foe.  The  weather  grew  milder, 
and  the  frozen  roads  became  a  mass  of  sloppy  mire  over  ankle  deep, 
ere  the  army  resumed  its  march.  On  the  20th  we  were  once  again 
in  motion.  The  sky  was  overcast  with  lowering,  grayish  clouds,  in 
dicating  rain,  while  the  roads  were  almost  impassable  on  account  of 
the  mire  and  mud.  Soon  after  departing  from  Fayetteville,  a  glance 
backward  revealed  one  of  those  spectacles  attendant  on  war,  which 
arouse  indescribable  emotions  of  sorrow  and  indignation.  Lurid 
flames,  with  their  forked  tongues,  began  to  appear  in  several  places, 
until  a  sea  of  fire,  leaping  heavenward,  accompanied1  with  a  dark 
volume  of  smoke,  rolled  over  the  town,  proclaiming  the  destruction 
and  ruin  left  behind  us.  As  the  cloud  rolled  away  northward,  it 
must  have  spoken  volumes  to  the  foe  of  the  sullen  determination 
which  animated  the  Southerners.  The  men  tightened  their  grasp  on 
their  rifles,  while  the  muttered  curse,  contracted  brows,  and  blazing- 
eyes  plainly  betokened  the  spirit  aroused  in  them  by  this  scene  of 
ruin  and  destruction.  The  Commissary  and  Quartermaster  buildings, 
containing  stores,  arsenal,  mills,  together  with  several  residences,  in 
cluding  a  large  quantity  of  provisions,  ammunition,  and  some  arms, 
were  destroyed.  Nothing  was  left  behind  that  could  in  any  manner 
contribute  to  the  comfort  or  support  of  the  enemy.  However  much 
this  wholesale  destruction  was  to  be  deprecated,  as  a  military  neces 
sity  no  one  could  question  its  wisdom  and  justice  who  at  all  com 
prehended  the  situation  of  affairs.  It  was  no  time,  in  the  face  of  a 
powerful  and  pursuing  foe,  to  query  into  the  motives  and  policy  of 
a  course  of  procedure,  prompted  by  dire  necessity,  the  salvation  of 
the  army,  and  the  ultimate  good  of  the  country.  All  day  long  the 
retreat  was  continued,  and  a  camp  selected  at  night,  only  that  the 
men  might  lie  down  on  the  saturated  ground,  in  a  cold  and  drench 
ing  rain,  as  usual  short  of  provisions,  and  with  little  or  no  shelter. 
The  Third  Regiment,  as  usual,  was  the  rear-guard  of  the  whole  army. 

Perhaps  nothing  could  more  forcibly  demonstrate  the  spirit  that 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  127 

animated  the  Louisianians  than  an  incident  that  occurred  on  their 
arrival  at  Fayetteville.  One  of  the  regiment,  who  showed  the  white 
feather  at  Oak  Hills,  and  had  been  taken  violently  ill  every  time  there 
was  a  prospect  of  a  fight,  was  found  in  hospital  here.  "  The  boys  " 
called  on  him,  sympathized  with  him,  regretted  exceedingly  that  he 
was  so  unfortunate,  but  they  had  determined  that  no  member  of  the 
Third  Louisiana  should  be  taken  alive  by  the  Yankees,  and  producing 
a  rope  with  a  running  noose,  threw  it  over  his  head,  around  his  neck, 
and  apparently  were  about  to  apply  the  "  Hemp  Practice.'-  His  re 
covery  was  instantaneous,  and  his  protestations  that  the  cure  was  a 
permanent  one  were  very  emphatic. 

Saturday,  February  22d,  1862,  was  a  day  which  those  who  com 
posed  the  Army  of  the  West  will  not  readily  forget.  Amid  a  terrific 
storm  of  rain  and  hail  the  men  once  more  journeyed  on,  sinking 
ankle  deep  in  mud.  Yet  cold  and  drenched  as  they  were,  the  Louis 
ianians  marched  cheerfully  forward,  shouting  forth  with  stentorian 
voices  the  chorus  of  the  "  Bonny  Blue  Flag,"  and  other  patriotic 
songs.  It  seemed  as  if  they  were  determined  their  spirits  should  not 
succumb  to  their  accumulated  sufferings,  hardships,  and  trials.  It 
appears  almost  incredible  that  men  could  exhibit  such  reckless  in 
difference,  such  strength  of  will  and  determination,  after  such  a  week 
of  bitter  experiences  as  these  men  were  taught.  The  war,  however, 
developed  and  decided  some  strange  theories  as  to  the  amount  of 
physical  powers  which  the  human  frame  contained— powers  of  en 
during  fatigue,  hunger,  thirst,  heat  and  cold,  which  would  scarcely 
have  been  believed  before,  if  asserted.  The  troops  arrived  at  their 
destination  on  Baston  Mountain  late  at  night,  the  22d  inst.,  with 
provisions  so  scarce  that  bread  was  hoarded  as  a  miser  hoards  his 
gold,  and  dealt  out  in  veiy  limited  quantities.  Provisions,  however, 
soon  arrived,  the  weather  changed  to  bright,  clear,  and  pleasant 
days,  tents  sufficient  to  shelter,  and  blankets  to  make  the  men  com 
fortable,  soon  being  supplied.  Few  of  those  at  home  who  celebrated 
the  22d  of  February  amid  scenes  of  festivity  and  rejoicing,  from 
mere  description  and  word-painting,  can  ever  realize  how  the  West 
ern  Army  of  the  South  spent  this  natal  day  of  our  loved  Washington, 
the  first  inauguration-day  of  the  young  Confederacy. 


CHAPTER     XVII. 

BASTON   MOUNTAIN. 

GENERAL  McOuLLOcn's  Division  camped  on  the  main  or  telegraph 
road  leading  to  Van  Buren,  while  General  Price's  army  occupied  a 
position  on  Cane  Hill  road,  some  three  miles  further  west,  defending 
the  road  over  Baston  Mountain.  The  strength  of  the  position,  to 
gether  with  much-needed  rest  and  a  good  supply  of  provisions,  soon 
placed  the  army  in  splendid  fighting  trim,  and  the  enemy's  approach 
was  quietly  awaited. 

Our  cavalry  were  out  between  our  position  and  the  enemy  watch 
ing  their  movements.  On  the  23d  a  picket  guard  was  scattered 
about  Fayetteville,  when  they  were  surrounded  by  a  large  cavalry 
force  of  the  Federals,  who  surprised  them.  Several  were'  killed, 
wounded  and  taken  prisoners,  in  their  attempt  to  escape.  A  scout 
killed  a  Federal  at  Mud  Town,  a  place  between  Baston  Mountain 
and  Fayetteville.  He  was  out  foraging  on  his  own  responsibility ; 
he  was  ordered  to  surrender,  which  he  refused  to  do,  when  the  Texan 
killed  him,  as  he  drew  his  revolver  to  fire. 

The  days  passed  away  without  materially  changing  the  relative 
positions  of  the  two  armies.  A  large  force  of  cavalry  were  sent  out 
to  penetrate  to  the  enemy's  rear,  cut  off  their  supplies,  and  destroy 
their  trains.  The  expedition  proved  eminently  successful.  The 
Federals  reported  that  their  trains  had  been  destroyed  and  mules 
killed  by  Missouri  Jayliawkers.  The  army  knew  who  u  struck  Billy 
Patterson,"  as  the  Texans  returned  on  the  24th,  bringing  with  them 
ten  prisoners.  They  destroyed  a  sutler's  train,  attacked  300  of  the 
enemy,  killing  27  without  having  a  man  injured,  penetrating  as  far 
as  Keatsville,  Mo.  One  of  the  prisoners  brought  in,  an  officer,  stated 
that  he  had  seen  considerable  scouting  in  the  bushes,  but  the  Texans 
beat  the  Devil  for  reckless  riding  in  the  woods.  His  uniform  was 
in  rags,  almost  torn  from  his  person,  by  contact  with  the  bushes. 
The  raiders  never  struck  a  road  in  their  expedition,  but  kept  to  the 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  129 

•woods,  nearly  altogether.  The  Federals  soon  retreated  from  Fayette- 
ville,  and  took  up  a  position  at  Cross  Hollows,  announcing  their  de 
termination  not  to  attack  the  Confederate  forces  among  the  hills  of 
Arkansas.  Colonel  Churchill's  regiment  dismounted  on  the  25th, 
consenting  to  this  step  only  on  condition  that  they  should  have  a 
position  next  to  the  Louisiana  boys.  The  regiment  was  now  sup 
ported  by  McRae's  and  Churchill's  regiments,  all  animated  by  a 
spirit  of  emulation  as  to  which  would  most  distinguish  themselves 
in  the  coming  battle  for  deeds  of  daring  and  bravery.  February 
closed  with  clear  and  pleasant  weather.  There  was  a  general  muster, 
review,  and  inspection  on  the  last  day.  The  troops  were  in  excellent 
health  and  spirits.  The  discipline  was  very  rigid  at  this  time,  and 
orders  very  strict.  The  closest  guard  was  kept  around  the  camps, 
and  on  the  roads,  so  that  it  was  an  utter  impossibility  for  either  sol 
dier  or  citizen  to  travel  without  a  correct  permit.  In  a  practical 
degree,  martial  law  prevailed.  On  the  evening  of  March  2d,  Major- 
General  Earl  Van  Dorn  arrived,  and  was  welcomed  by  salutes  from 
nearly  all  the  Missouri  artillery.  He  at  once  assumed  command,  and 
immediately  issued  orders  to  prepare  to  march  on  the  enemy.  Im 
petuous,  at  times  rash  and  reckless,  brave  and  daring  to  a  fault,  with 
his  usual  spirit,  he  was  about  to  hurl  his  army  on  the  foe.  The  men 
felt  that  there  was  to  be  no  more  retreating,  no  more  waiting.  The 
two  forces  having  at  length  been  united,  ho  hesitated  not  a  day  as 
to  his  course.  All  extra  clothing,  baggage,  tents,  etc.,  were  ordered 
to  be  left  behind.  Provisions  (such  as  were  on  hand)  were  prepared, 
and  all  was  once  again  bustle  and  excitement.  The  army  took  up 
the  lice  of  march  on  the  4th,  left  in  front,  as  follows :  Price's  army, 
with  strong  flankers,  on  the  left.  Next  came  McCulloch's  Division, 
as  follows:  Rector's,  Hill's,  Mitchell's,  MoNair's,  Mclntosh's  (dis 
mounted),  Whitfield's  Battalion  (dismounted  Texans),  McRae's  Ar 
kansas  Regiment,  Province's  Battery,  Churchill's  Regiment  (dis 
mounted),  Hart's  Battery,  and  Third  Louisiana  Regiment,  with 
Goode's  Battery  in  front.  Then  the  trains  of  the  various  regiments. 
On  the  night  of  the  4th,  the  College  buildings  in  Fayetteville,  occu 
pied  by  Companies  A  and  K  as  winter-quarters,  were  fired  by  some 
incendiary,  supposed  to  be  a  signal  to  the  enemy  of  our  occupation 
of  the  place. 

The  army  arrived  at  Elm  Springs,  fifteen  miles  north  of  Fayette 
ville,  on  the  evening  of  the  5th,  to  find  the  enemy  gone.  Here  two 
spies  sent  out  by  Siegel  were  captured.  A  more  ragged,  forlorn, 
dirty,  miserable-looking  couple  could  not  possibly  have  been  found. 
They  were  splendidly  rigged  for  the  occasion,  and  did  credit  to  the 
6* 


130  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

inventive  genius  of  the  Deutsche  General  Siegel.  The  cavalry  also 
captured  seven  forage  wagons,  and  thirty-eight  Federals,  out  hunting 
forage.  The  next  morning  ten  more  were  added  to  the  number. 
They  evidently  had  not  been  informed  of  our  advance,  and  were  sur 
prised  most  completely.  During  this  time  the  weather  was  very 
cold,  and  we  were  visited  with  several  snow-storms,  and  making 
forced  marches  every  day.  It  seemed  as  if  General  Van  Dorn  imag 
ined  the  men  were  made  of  cast-steel,  with  the  strength  and  powers 
of  endurance  of  a  horse,  whose  mettle  he  was  testing  to  its  utmost 
capacity  and  tension.  Scarcely  time  was  given  the  men  to  prepare 
food  and  snatch  a  little  rest.  On  the  6th  we  started  very  early,  and 
arrived  at  Bentonville  soon  after  noon.  The  army  looked  spendidly 
as  the  long  line  marched  across  the  open  prairie  with  their  flags 
fluttering  in  the  breeze.  We  reached  Bentonville  just  in  time  to  see 
Siegel's  Division,  who  had  been  west  of  this  place,  disappear  with 
his  column  en  route  for  the  main  body  of  the  enemy.  An  hour  sooner 
and  he  would  have  been  cut  off.  On  what  slight  events  do  the  fate 
of  armies  depend  !  General  Mclntosh  made  a  dashing  charge  upon 
the  rear  of  the  retreating  column,  plunging  into  the  midst  of  a  large 
force  of  infantry  and  in  face  of  a  battery,  with  Greer's  Texas  Regi 
ment,  ere  he  was  aware  of  the  peril  of  his  position.  There  was  a 
fierce  rattle  of  musketry,  mingled  with  the  roar  of  artillery,  for  a 
few  moments,  proclaiming  how  sharp  was  the  skirmish.  Although 
obliged  to  retire,  he  killed  a  number  of  the  foe,  captured  forty  pris 
oners,  and  one  piece  of  artillery,  knocked  into  pi  by  a  well-directed 
shot  from  one  of  Price's  rifled  pieces.  Our  loss  two  killed  and  eight 
wounded.  That  night  we  laid  down  once  more  in  Camp  Stephens, 
only  to  resume  the  march  after  a  two  hours'  rest.  We  wore  being 
rushed  upon  the  foe  like  a  thunderbolt.  But  they  were  prepared  for 
our  coming.  Ere  morning  our  army  was  slumbering  within  three 
miles  of  the  enemy,  while  General  Price  had  penetrated  to  their 
front,  cutting  off  their  retreat  towards  Missouri.  He  had  succeeded 
in  cutting  out  a  blockaded  cross-road,  leading  to  the  main  road  in 
front  of  the  enemy,  without  being  discovered  or  molested.  When 
we  halted  on  the  night  of  the  6th  fires  were  built  with  rails  from  an 
adjoining  fence.  General  McCulloch  came  among  the  men  of  the 
Louisiana  Regiment,  and  sitting  down  on  a  rail  near  one  of  the  fires, 
commenced  chatting  with  the  officers  and  men,  who  gathered  thickly 
around  him.  He  was  dressed  in  a  complete  suit  of  beautiful  dark 
and  heavy  velvet.  One  of  the  men  approached  the  fire,  and,  not 
observing  who  the  General  was,  tapped  him  on  the  shoulder  with  a 
bundle  of  sticks  which  he  had  in  his  hand,  remarking,  "I  wish  you 


THIRD    LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  131 

would  put  these  in  that  fire  and  give  me  a  light."  The  General, 
without  moving  his  position,  quietly  took  the  splinters  and  thrust 
them  into  the  fire.  As  soon  as  they  were  lighted  he  took  them  out, 
and  turning  to  the  private,  quietly  said :  ''  Here  my  good  fellow,  is 
your  fire."  The  man  was  dumfounded,  confused,  when  he  saw  who 
it  was  that  he  had  treated  so  familiarly,  and,  muttering  an  apology, 
hastened  from  the  spot.  His  astonishment  and  confusion  created 
much  laughter  among  the  men  who  witnessed  the  incident.  After 
chatting  quietly  and  calmly  for  some  moments  as  to  the  issue  of  the 
approaching  battle,  he  energetically  exclaimed :  "  I  tell  you,  men,  the 
army  that  is  defeated  in  this  fight  will  get  a  h — 1  of  a  whipping !" 
Was  it  prophecy  ?  Did  the  unseen  Angel  of  Death,  which  threw  the 
shadow  of  its  dark  wings  over  his  brave  spirit,  whisper  to  his  soul 
his  approaching  doom  ?  We  know  not,  yet  that  night  the  men  all 
remarked  how  different  he  seemed  from  his  nsual  manner.  He  was 
unusually  reticent,  and  spoke  in  a  quiet,  subdued  voice,  so  unlike 
his  customary  energetic,  determined  actions  and  speech. 


CHAPTER    XVIII. 

THE     BATTLE     OF     ELK     HORN. 

WEAKIED,  hungry,  and  broken  as  the  men  were  from  their  rapid 
march,  the  loss  of  rest  and  want  of  food,  early  on  the  morning  of 
March  7,  1862,  they  were  marched  on  the  position  known  as  Pea 
Ridge,  near  Elk  Horn  Tavern  and  ravine,  about  thirty  miles  north 
of  Fayetteville.  The  road  towards  Missouri  led  through  a  deep 
and  narrow  defile,  darkened  with  the  shadows  of  the  overhanging 
hills.  The  division  started  to  join  Price,  but  were  soon  turned  back 
as  the  enemy  were  making  a  demonstration  in  our  rear.  The  morn 
ing  was  bright  and  beautiful,  the  air  fresh,  pleasant  and  bracing. 
Soon  the  deep  boom  of  a  single  gun  echoed  over  the  hills  and  along  the 
valleys,  followed  by  another  and  another,  until  the  sound  became  a 
continuous  roar.  General  Price  had  opened  the  fight.  While  march 
ing  towards  the  enemy's  position,  Hart's  Battery  in  front,  supported 
by  the  Louisianians,  along  the  east  end  of  an  open  corn-field  ex 
tending  far  down  the  valley,  the  enemy  opened  a  battery  of  rifled 
guns  on  the  moving  column  from  a  cluster  of  trees  near  the  centre 
of  the  field.  Our  cavalry,  under  the  leadership  of  the  intrepid  and 
dashing  Mclntosh,  were  in  this  field,  close  to  the  right  of  the  in 
fantry.  The  ground  sloped  very  gently  towards  the  position  taken 
by  the  Federal  battery.  As  soon  as  the  guns  opened,  the  cavalry 
commenced  manoeuvring  until  they  formed  a  half  circle,  extending 
the  whole  width  of  the  field.  The  shells  began  to  pass  in  dangerous 
proximity  with  their  shrill  scream,  when  suddenly  a  hundred  bugles 
pealed  forth  the  charge,  their  clarion  notes  rising  clear  and  distinct 
above  the  din  of  battle.  With  shrill  whoops,  and  yelling  like  de 
mons,  upwards  of  5,000  painted  Indians  and  Texan  Rangers, 
under  the  lead  of  the  gallant  Mclntosh,  swept  down  like  a  whirl 
wind  on  the  doomed  battery.  So  impetuous,  so  sudden  was  the 
charge,  that  no  time  was  given  the  foe  to  meet  the  rushing  host  of 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  133 

horsemen.  In  less  than  five  minutes  the  battery  was  captured,  the 
infantry  force  supporting  it  shot  down,  ridden  over  and  scattered 
like  chaff  before  a  whirlwind.  It  was  a  gallant  charge — a  brave 
feat  seldom  occurring,  and,  once  witnessed,  never  to  be  forgotten. 
Napoleon's  Life  Guards  never  swept  upon  a  foe  with  more  impetu 
osity  and  gallantry  than  did  our  cavalry  in  this  charge.  The  uproar 
died  away  in  spattering  shots,  and  then  ceased  altogether. 

These  guns  were  given  in  charge  of  the  Indians,  to  whom  such 
huge  guns  seemed  not  only  a  mystery,  but  endowed  with  super 
natural  powers.  Their  use  was  a  new  feature  in  warfare,  to  which 
they  were  totally  unaccustomed.  They  immediately  took  to  the 
bushes ;  then,  suddenly  darting  out,  shot  down  the  horses,  at  the 
same  time  uttering  a  guttural  "  Boom  !"  They  next  piled  rails  on 
the  carriages  and  put  fire  to  them.  When  it  was  reduced  to  ashes, 
and  the  guns  lay  useless  on  the  ground,  they  expressed  their  satisfac 
tion  by  saying,  "  No  more  boom" — "  Good  !"  They  shot  at  every  one 
having  on  a  blue  coat,  whether  friend  or  foe,  using  their  scalping- 
knives  in  the  same  manner — some  of  the  Confederate  dead  having  been 
found  subjected  to  this  barbarous  custom  of  these  untutored  savages. 
The  half-breeds  were  better  trained,  and  practiced  no  such  barbarities. 
After  the  capture  of  this  battery,  the  infantry  was  inarched  to  the 
top  of  a  high  cone-shaped  hill,  overlooking  the  valley  extending 
westward.  They  were  soon  discovered  and  opened  on  by  another 
battery.  Here  they  laid  down,  the  shot  passing  harmlessly  over 
them  with  their  shrill,  ugly  scream.  The  surrounding  country  was 
covered  with  dense  underbrush  and  heavy  timber,  interspersed  with 
open  corn-fields,  surrounded  by  high,  rocky  hills.  In  company  with 
Mitchell's,  McRae's  and  McNair's  Arkansas  regiment,  the  Louisi- 
anians  were  led  to  meet  the  foe.  As  the  line  of  battle  cautiously 
felt  its  way  through  the  dense  undergrowth,  the  whole  line  was 
opened  on  with  a  fire  so  close  and  deadly  that  they  wavered  and 
staggered  before  the  storm  in  some  places,  being  thrown  into  great 
confusion.  Quickly  rallying,  under  the  lead  of  Colonel  Hebert, 
commanding  the  brigade,  and  Major  Tunnard  at  the  head  of  the 
regiment,  with  loud  cheers  we  rushed  on  the  foe,  driving  them  back 
in  confusion.  Five  times  they  rallied,  and  five  times  were  they 
charged  and  routed.  It  seemed  as  if  nothing  could  withstand  the 
reckless,  furious  courage  which  animated  the  men.  The  foe  retreated 
within  cover  of  a  masked  battery  which  was  planted  in  a  thicket 
skirting  a  corn-field.  So  close  and  hot  was  our  pursuit  that  no  op 
portunity  was  given  to  use  the  guns.  As  the  men  caught  sight  of 
these  guns,  they  rushed  upon  them  with  deafening  cheers  across  the 


134  A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

open  corn-field,  driving  back  the  foe  with  irresistible  fury.  Around 
these  guns  the  contest  raged  fearfully ;  the  musketry  was  close, 
heavy  and  deadly.  But  the  men  held  their  position,  and  once  more 
defeated  the  foe,  fighting  a  largely  superior  force.  The  line  was  in 
great  confusion  at  this  time.  Captain  Gunnels,  of  Company  I,  as 
sisted  by  other  officers,  made  an  attempt  to  form  a  new  line,  in 
which  he  partially  succeeded,  as  the  men  were  so  wild  with  excite 
ment  as  to  be  almost  uncontrollable.  This  new  line  was  immediately 
in  front  of  the  captured  guns  in  the  open  field,  just  outside  the 
skirting  woods.  Another  battery  suddenly  opened  on  our  right, 
far  down  the  field,  while  a  regiment  of  cavalry  made  a  dashing 
charge  through  a  gap  in  the  fence  upon  our  left  and  rear.  With 
our  forces  in  confusion,  tired  and  worn  down  with  their  long  marches, 
hard  fighting  and  eager  pursuit  of  the  enemy,  without  our  leaders 
(Major  Tunnard,  Colonel  Hebert  and  many  officers  having  disap 
peared),  the  men  turned  upon  the  cavalry  like  tigers  at  bay.  So 
close  and  deadly  was  the  concentrated  fire  of  the  line  upon  the  head 
of  the  charging  squadron,  that  scarcely  a  man  who  entered  the  field 
in  the  charge  escaped.  Men  and  horses  rolled  in  death  upon  that 
blood-stained  field.  The  remainder  of  the  cavalry  wheeled  away  in 
rapid  flight.  Thus  surrounded,  not  reinforced  or  aided  by  cavalry 
or  infantiy,  the  order  was  given  to  fall  back,  which  was  accomplished 
in  good  order  under  a  heavy  fire  from  the  enemy's  artillery.  The 
battery  captured  and  then  abandoned  belonged  to  Siegel's  division 
of  the  army.  With  sorrow  and  dismay  was  it  then  learned  that 
Generals  McCulloch  and  Mclntoshhad  both  fallen  early  in  the  day — 
the  former  killed  while  reconnoitering  the  enemy's  position  ;  the 
latter  while  leading  a  charge  at  the  head  of  his  old  regiment. 
Hence  the  inactivity  of  our  cavalry  and  reserved  infantry  forces, 
who  impatiently  awaited,  where  they  were  stationed,  orders  from 
the  generals  to  enter  the  arena  of  strife.  The  Louisiana  Regiment 
fought  with  brave,  reckless  desperation,  and  suffered  very  severely. 

The  growth  of  underbrush  on  the  battle-field  was  so  dense  that 
the  field  officers  were  compelled  to  dismount.  Thus  the  Major,  with 
a  sword  in  one  hand  and  a  flag  in  the  other,  rallied  and  cheered  on 
the  men  until  he  sank  upon  the  ground  completely  exhausted.  He 
attempted  to  find  his  horse,  but  failed  to  do  so,  on  account  of  his 
helpless  condition.  We  extract  from  his  private  diary  the  follow 
ing  particulars  of  his  capture :  "  I  remained  lying  on  the  ground 
more  than  an  hour,  not  knowing  ^here  our  forces  were,  or  whether 
we  were  victorious  or  defeated,  when  I  was  startled  by  the  approach 
of  a  regiment.  On  discovering  me,  one  company  fired  a  volley  at 


TRIED   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  135 

me,  the  balls  striking  all  around  me,  but  fortunately  none  hitting 
my  person.  I  at  once  waved  my  handkerchief  in  token  of  my  help 
less  condition.  Lieutenant  Gale,  of  the  Forty-forth  Illinois  Regi 
ment,  rode  up  to  me  and  demanded  my  arms,  which  I  handed  him. 
On  discovering  my  complete  physical  exhaustion,  he  sent  for  a  horse, 
which  I  mounted,  and  was  escorted  to  their  camp." 

During  the  fight,  McRae's  and  Mitchell's  Regiments  being  thrown 
into  confusion,  fell  in  the  rear  of  the  Third  Regiment.  Major  Tun- 
narcl,  assisted  by  Lieutenant  Humble,  of  Company  I,  and  Lieutenant 
Johnson,  besides  other  officers,  made  the  most  strenuous  exertions 
to  form  them  into  line,  but  without  effect.  They  dropped  behind, 
firing  upon  the  Louisianians  from  the  rear,  doing  a  great  deal  of  mis 
chief.  This  was  caused  by  undisciplined  u  Minute-men,"  who  had 
joined  the  different  regiments  for  the  battle.  Private  Caton,  of 
Company  E,  and  one  of  Company  C,  were  thus  shot  from  the  rear. 
Colonel  Hebert  fought  bravely  throughout  the  battle,  leading  the 
men  gallantly  in  every  charge.  While  attempting  to  lead  a  portion 
of  the  troops,  including  some  sixty  of  the  regiment,  from  the  field 
of  battle,  they  were  surrounded  and  taken  prisoners.  Besides 
Colonel  Hebert,  the  enemy  captured  Captain  Viglini,  Company  K, 
Lieutenant  Washburn,  Company  B,  and  Lieutenant  Emanuel,  Com 
pany  C.  The  death  of  Generals  Mclntosh  and  McCulloch  undoubt 
edly  lost  the  battle.  The  enemy  were  completely  beaten  at  every 
point,  and  had  our  reserve  forces  been  ordered  up  at  the  proper 
moment,  the  victory  would  have  been  most  signal. 

When  the  Louisianians  learned  the  certainty  of  their  idolized 
chieftain's  death,  many  of  these  lion-hearted  men  threw  themselves 
in  wild  grief  upon  the  ground,  weeping  scalding  tears  in  their  bit 
ter  sorrow.  It  is  a  fearful  spectacle  to  see  a  strong-hearted  man 
thus  give  way  to  his  feelings.  It  demonstrated  the  devotion  felt 
for  General  McCulloch,  and  showed  how  deeply  he  was  enshrined 
in  these  brave  souls.  The  sun  went  down  amid  the  roar  of  artillery 
and  the  rattle  of  musketry.  We  slept  on  the  field  of  battle,  bur 
rowing  amid  heaps  of  dry  forest-leaves,  to,  in  some  measure,  pro 
tect  our  weary  frames  from  the  chilling  mountain  air.  A  deep 
gloom  settled  over  the  spirits  of  the  men,  and  they  were  nearly 
disheartened. 

At  1  o'clock  A.  M.  we  were  aroused  fronTour  weary,  restless  slum 
bers,  and  ordered  to  join  Price's  command.  This  brave  general  had 
also  driven  the  enemy  from  eveiy  position,  capturing  seven  pieces 
of  artillery,  a  large  number  of  prisoners,  the  enemy's  camps,  etc. 
Early  on  the  morning  of  the  8th  the  battle  recommenced  with  re- 


136  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

doubled  fury.  The  cannonading  was  terrific — the  thunder  of  the 
guns  reverberating  among  the  hills  in  a  continuous  roar.  As  Mc- 
Culloch's  Division  approached  the  line  of  battle,  the  men  stripped 
for  the  fight,  throwing  aside  their  few  remaining  blankets  and  over 
coats,  and  evincing  their  eagerness  by  hastening  forward  at  a  double- 
quick.  A  line  of  battle  was  formed  immediately  in  the  rear  of  the 
engaged  forces,  near  an  open  field,  and  the  men  were  once  more 
within  range  of  the  enemy's  shot  and  shell,  which  passed  harmlessly 
over  them.  While  the  struggle  went  on,  several  of  our  batteries 
were  ordered  to  a  point  of  one  of  the  hills.  It  was  in  point-blank 
range  of  a  concentrated  fire  of  the  enemy's  batteries,  and  our  guns 
were  successively  silenced,  with  fearful  loss.  Here  Captain  Clark, 
the  gallant  commander  of  onu  of  Price's  most  effective  and  distin 
guished  batteries,  lost  his  life.  A  gun  of  one  battery  was  brought 
out  by  a  single  cannoneer,  all  his  comrades  having  fallen,  the  last 
one  being  killed  as  he  was  hooking  the  sponge  to  the  carriage. 

The  subjoined  official  report  of  Captain  Gilniore,  commanding 
Company  F,  and  a  letter  written  by  Sergeant  W.  Kinney,  Company 
F,  furnish  some  interesting  particulars  of  the  battle,  and  portray 
not  only  the  desperate  valor  of  the  members  of  Company  F,  but 
also  of  the  remainder  of  the  regiment  who  fought  with  them  : 

SERGEANT   KINNKY's    ACCOUNT    OF    THE   BATTLE. 

VAN  BUREN,  March  16th,  1862. 

A  few  words  of  the  great  battle  may  be  interesting.  We  left 
Baston  Mountain  on  Tuesday,  March  4th,  and  camped  near  Fayette- 
ville ;  General  Price's  command  in  advance.  Wednesday  morning 
we  passed  through  Fayetteville,  our  train  being  left  behind ;  we 
camped  for  the  night  at  Elm  Springs,  twelve  miles  from  Fayetteville. 
It  snowed  heavily  all  day,  making  the  roads  almost  impassable.  We 
learned  next  morning  that  the  enemy  was  at  Bentonville,  about 
13,000  strong,  and  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  for  that  place.  The 
weather  was  piercing  cold.  Our  advance-guard  engaged  the  enemy, 
who  were  in  full  retreat,  one  mile  north  of  Bentonville,  and  fought 
them  all  the  way  to  Camp  Stephens,  a  distance  of  seven  miles.  I 
have  not  learned  the  loss  of  the  enemy ;  ours  was  three  wounded. 

We  saw  two  of  the  enemy  dead  and  one  wounded  on  the  roadside. 
The  woods  all  along  the  road  were  strewn  with  dead  horses.  We 
arrived  at  Camp  Stephens  about  dark,  almost  frozen  and  starved, 
having  only  one  biscuit  for  breakfast  that  morning,  and  no  prospect 
of  supper.  We  built  fires,  and  sat  around  them  waiting  for  the 
wagons  to  arrive.  Just  as  they  came  up  we  were  ordered  to  march. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  137 

We  left  camp  at  ten  o'clock  that  night  without  supper,  or  blankets 
to  keep  off  the  damp  night  air.  We  marched  about  seven  miles, 
when  we  were  ordered  to  rest,  which  we  needed  very  much,  having 
marched  twenty-six  miles  that  day  and  night.  We  made  fires  of 
fence-rails,  and  laid  around  them  until  morning. 

It  was  impossible  to  sleep,  for  the  night  was  bitter  cold ;  no  one 
will  ever  know  how  much  we  suffered  from  cold  and  hunger ;  no 
tongue  or  pen  can  paint  it.  Friday  morning,  March  7th,  came  at 
last,  and  with  it  the  order,  "  Fall  in  !" 

The  Rangers  "  fell  in  "  to  a  man,  but  such  a  worn-out  set  of  men  I 
never  saw.  They  had  not  one  single  mouthful  of  food  to  eat.  We 
marched  about  five  miles  and  countermarched  three  miles ;  General 
Price  had  opened  the  battle  on  the  Telegraph  road,  near  the  Elk 
Horn  Tavern,  at  10  A.  M.  The  enemy  had  possession  of  the  hills 
between  the  Telegraph  and  the  road  we  were  on.  All  the  infantry 
and  cavalry  of  McCulloch's  Division  were  drawn  up  in  line ;  Third 
Louisiana  was  sent  forward  to  open  the  engagement  on  our  side. 
While  we  were  marching  through  a  lane,  with  some  Texas  and  Indian 
cavalry  on  our  right,  we  were  suddenly  fired  on  by  a  masked  battery 
about  300  yards  distant ;  not  expecting  an  attacK  so  soon,  we  were 
thrown  into  considerable  confusion,  from  which,  however,  we  soon 
recovered,  to  witness  one  of  the  most  brilliant  charges  of  the  cam 
paign  by  Young's  and  other  Texas  cavalry.  As  soon  as  the  battery 
opened  on  us  the  cavalry  bugles  sounded  the  charge.  Like  a  flash 
of  lightning  the  columns  of  cavalry  dashed  out,  completely  sur 
rounding  the  battery,  and  capturing  it  in  less  time  than  it  takes  to 
write  it. 

The  enemy's  infantry  and  cavalry  who  were  supporting  the  battery 
fired  one  round  and  ran. 

We  now  marched  in  a  south-easterly  direction.  Major  W.  F.  Tun- 
narcl,  commanding ;  Captain  Hart's  Battery  in  advance. 

We  had  marched  about  one  mile,  when  we  were  fired  on  by  a 
mountain  howitzer,  stationed  on  a  high  hill  on  our  right.  The 
enemy  made  some  very  close  shots ;  fortunately  not  one  of  our  boys 
was  injured  by  them. 

Colonel  Hebert  came  riding  down,  and  was  requested  by  the  men 
not  to  leave  them.  This  was  the  highest  compliment  our  regiment 
could  bestow.  His  response  was,  "  I  will  not  leave  you,  my  men, 
this  day." 

We  then  countermarched  and  passed  under  the  foot  of  the  hill  on 
which  the  howitzer  was  planted,  with  McRea's  and  McNair's  Regi 
ments  and  Greer's  Texas  on  the  hillside.  Rested  a  few  minutes  until 


138  A   SOUTHERN   KECOED. 

heavy  firing  of  small-arms  was  heard  in  front,  and  order  came  for  us 
to  march  in  the  direction  of  the  firing. 

We  had  not  proceeded  far  when  we  were  fired  upon  by  the  enemy's 
infantry,  who  were  posted  in  a  thicket  on  our  left.  We  instantly 
charged  them,  and  drove  them  back,  when  we  were  fired  on  by  a 
battery  about  two  hundred  yards  distant  on  our  right. 

We  charged  the  battery  with  McRae's  and  MclSTair's  Regiments, 
gallantly  led  by  Colonel  Hebert,  taking  it  and  driving  them  from 
their  guns.  In  this  charge  the  three  regiments  became  mixed. 
About  this  time  Colonel  Hebert  and  Major  Tunnard  were  cut  off  and 
taken  prisoners. 

The  enemy  on  our  left  opened  a  heavy  fire  on  us.  We  charged 
and  drove  them  off  with  a  heavy  loss  to  them.  We  then  discovered 
the  enemy's  cavalry  were  flanking  us  on  the  right.  Captain  Gunnell, 
the  senior  officer  in  command,  ordered  us  to  take  the  fence,  as  a 
heavy  body  of  the  enemy's  cavalry  were  flanking  us  on  the  right. 
We  had  scarcely  taken  the  position  when  the  cavalry  made  a  bold 
and  daring  charge,  and  were  repulsed  with  a  heavy  loss.  At  this 
time  it  was  discovered  that  a  large  body  of  infantry  were  flanking 
us  on  the  left.  Captain  Gilmore  was  immediately  ordered  to  the  left 
to  meet  the  enemy  in  the  thicket.  Here  a  desperate  fight  ensued,  the 
enemy  having  been  thrown  there  in  a  large  body.  The  Louisiana 
and  Arkansas  troops  fought  like  bull-dogs,  and  drove  them  back 
with  great  slaughter. 

This  portion  of  the  command  then  became  separated  from  the 
balance.  The  men  requested  Captain  Gilmore  to  take  command, 
which  he  did.  As  he  was  forming  the  men  in  line,  we  were  again 
flanked  on  the  left.  We  charged,  and  drove  the  enemy  back  with 
heavy  loss.  Captain  Gilmore  then  secured  a  flag,  placed  it  front,  and 
with  the  assistance  of  Lieutenants  Gentles,  Pelican  Rifles,  Morse, 
Pelicans  No.  1,  and  Hobbs,  of  McRea's  Regiment,  succeeded  in  form 
ing  them  in  line.  These  young  oflicers  showed  great  bravery  and 
coolness. 

This  command  was  from  300  to  500  strong,  and  was  the  left  of 
McCulloch's  Division.  They  secured  a  guide,  and  made  for  the  point 
from  which  they  first  started,  determined  to  cut  their  way  out,  but 
had  but  one  slight  skirmish  with  the  enemy  on  their  way  out,  and 
were  the  last  to  leave  the  field.  This  command  picked  up  all  the 
stragglers  on  the  way  out,  and  came  out  with  800  or  1,000  men. 
Generals  McCulloch  and  Mclntosh  fell  early  in  the  action,  and  Colo 
nel  Hebert  was  taken  prisoner,  and  Major  Tunnard. 

The  regiments  engaged  withdrew  to  the  opposite  side  of  a  large 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  139 

corn-field,  and  laid  on  their  arms  for  the  night.  A  number  of  regi 
ments  were  not  engaged,  but  were  held  in  reserve.  McCulloch's  Di 
vision  was  ordered  to  General  Price  at  3  A.  M.  I  will  here  mention 
the  cool  gallantly  of  Captain  Gunnell  in  rallying  the  men  through 
the  whole  engagement. 

Arrived  at  General  Price's  camp  near  daylight.  Soon  after,  our 
artillery  and  the  enemy's  commenced  a  heavy  duel.  Churchill's  Ar 
kansas  Regiment  and  Whitfield's  Texas  engaged  their  infantiy  on 
the  right.  Our  regiment,  McRea's,  McNair's,  Hill's,  and  Mitchell's 
regiments  were  on  a  hill  on  the  left  of  the  Telegraph  road,  within 
250  yards  of  our  batteries.  The  cannonading  was  said  to  be  one  of 
the  grandest  sights  ever  witnessed,  and  lasted  for  four  hours,  when 
General  Van  Dorn  ordered  the  troops  to  be  withdrawn,  on  account 
of  a  want  of  food  and  sleep.  The  Rangers  fought  bravely  through 
the  fight  of  the  7th,  both  officers  and  men.  A  great  many  of  the 
regiments  were  completely  exhausted  for  want  of  food  and  sleep, 
and  wandered  off  on  the  night  of  the  7th  in  search  of  food,  and  were 
unable  to  rejoin  their  companies  on  the  morning  of  the  8th.  Our 
train  was  on  the  Elm  Spring  road  to  the  Baston  Mountain,  and  the 
army  on  the  Frog  Bayou  road,  falling  back  to  this  place.  It  would 
be  impossible  to  picture  the  suffering  of  our  army  on  this  retreat. 

When  the  army  arrived  at  White  River,  our  gallant  little  Captain 
J.  B.  Gilmore  gave  out ;  he  was  placed  in  a  wagon,  and  soon  after 
fainted,  having  eaten  nothing  for  four  days.  The  men  were  eating 
new  corn ;  some  would  shoot  a  hog  and  eat  the  raw  meat  without 
salt. 

The  enemy  lost  in  killed  six  to  our  one,  and  a  greater  number  in 
proportion  wounded.  We  turned  two  of  their  batteries,  and  came 
out  of  the  fight  with  four  guns  more  than  we  had  when  we  went  in. 
We  have  between  500  and  600  prisoners ;  having  more  than  they 
have  of  ours.  Have  saved  all  our  trains.  The  enemy  burnt  a  large 
number  of  their  wagons  to  prevent  their  falling  into  our  hands.  The 
army  is  now  encamped  seven  miles  from  here,  on  the  Frog  Bayou 
road.  The  Louisiana  Regiment  stationed  here  for  the  present. 

Casualties  in  Shreveport  Rangers :  Private  John  Craig  supposed  to 
be  killed  ;  Frank  Cane  wounded,  not  dangerously  ;  M.  F.  Miller,  L.  J. 
Singer,  J.  F.  Jus,  D.  S.  Duval,  and  C.  Wols,  prisoners ;  J.  Kimball, 
missing.  All  the  rest  are  here,  rather  badly  used  up.  If  the  Rangers 
have  not  seen  hard  service  now,  they  never  will.  An  exchange  of 
prisoners  will  be  made  in  a  day  or  two. 

Hoping,  etc.,  etc.,  W.  KINNEY. 


14:0  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

CAPTAIN  GILMORE'S  REPORT. 

HEADQUARTERS  SIIREVEPQRT  RANGERS,) 
THIRD  LOUISIANA  VOLUNTEERS.         \ 

Captain  Gunnell,  commanding  Third  Louisiana  Volunteers: 

SIR, — On  the  morning  of  tlie  4th  of  March,  I  left  carnp  on  Baston 
Mountain  with  my  company,  numbering  sixty-three  rank  and  file, 
and  camped  that  night  within  three  miles  of  Fayetteville. 

Resumed  the  line  of  march  with  the  regiment  in  the  morning, 
camping  that  night  at  Elm  Spring.  The  men  very  much  fatigued, 
and  many  of  them  with  their  feet  badly  blistered.  Resumed  the 
line  of  inarch  on  the  morning  of  the  6th,  halting  at  Sugar  Creek 
for  a  short  time  late  that  evening.  Resumed  the  line  of  march  that 
night,  arriving  three  miles  north  of  Camp  McCulloch  at  about  2 
o'clock  on  the  morning  of  the  7th,  remaining  there  until  7  A.  M. 
The  men  were  very  much  worn  out,  having  had  but  little  to  eat  since 
leaving  Baston  Mountain.  The  weather  being  very  cold,  and  the 
men  without  blankets,  they  had  but  little  sleep,  and  were,  in  con 
sequence,  in  a  poor  condition  to  resume  the  march  that  morning. 
When  the  call  was  made  to  fall  in,  the  Rangers  fell  in  promptly. 
We  marched  within  a  short  distance  of  the  Telegraph  Road,  when 
we  were  countermarched  three  miles.  We  turned  off  to  the  left,  and 
while  marching  through  a  lane,  we  were  fired  on  by  a  masked  bat 
tery,  about  three  hundred  yards'  distance  on  our  right.  The  com 
pany  was  thrown  into  a  little  confusion,  not  expecting  an  attack 
from  that  quarter,  but  from  which  they  soon  recovered. 

We  were  then  marched  a  short  distance  up  the  lane,  when  we 
were  fired  on  by  a  mountain  howitzer  stationed  on  a  hill  on  our 
right.  We  then  filed  to  the  right,  and  marched  upon  the  side  of  a 
hill,  where  we  halted. 

Soon  heavy  firing  of  small-arms  was  heard  in  front.  The  regi 
ment  was  then  moved  forward,  the  company  in  its  place,  in  line. 

We  had  not  proceeded  far  when  we  were  fired  on  by  a  body  of 
the  enemy's  infantry  from  a  thicket  on  our  left.  We  moved  in  the 
direction  of  the  enemy,  when  heavy  firing  ensued  on  both  sides. 
Owing  to  the  thick  undergrowth,  we  could  not  advance  in  regular 
line  of  battle,  and  became  somewhat  mixed  up  by  other  troops  rush 
ing  through  our  ranks.  After  the  enemy  had  been  driven  back  we 
were  fired  on  by  a  battery  on  the  right. 

We  were  then  ordered  and  led  by  Colonel  Hebert  to  charge  the 
battery.  Here  the  Rangers  became  mixed  up  with  the  other  com 
panies  of  the  regiment  and  some  Arkansas  troops,  and  I  was  unable 
to  get  the  entire  company  together  again  during  the  day. 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  141 

After  the  battery  was  taken,  we  were  fired  on  from  the  woods  to 
the  left  of  the  battery.  Here  considerable  confusion  ensued  in 
every  company,  caused  by  members  of  other  companies  and  some  Ar 
kansas  troops  getting  mixed  up  with  them ;  but  showed  great 
bravery  in  driving  the  enemy  buck  to  the  thicket. 

I  here  made  an  effort  to  re-form  the  company,  but  had  only  partly 
succeeded,  when  it  was  discovered  that  a  large  body  of  the 
enemy's  cavalry  was  flanking  us  on  the  right. 

We  moved  in  that  direction  to  a  fence.  The  cavalry  made  a 
charge  on  us  at  this  point,  but  were  repulsed  with  considerable  loss. 
I  was  here  ordered  by  Captain  Gunnell,  the  senior  officer  in  com 
mand,  to  go  to  his  left  into  the  thicket,  to  meet  a  large  body  of  the 
enemy's  infantry  who  were  advancing  upon  us  from  that  direction. 
I  had  not  advanced  far  when  a  heavy  fire  of  small-arms  was  opened 
upon  us.  Here  a  desperate  fight  ensued ;  but  we  succeeded  in  driv 
ing  them  back  with  great  loss.  Here  the  men  showed  the  greatest 
bravery — the  coolest  and  most  determined  fighting  I  ever  wit 
nessed. 

At  the  flash  of  the  enemy's  guns  the  men  would  rush  madly  on 
them,  routing  them  from  behind  logs,  stumps  and  trees,  shooting 
them  at  almost  every  step.  In  this  fight  were  about  250  Louisiana 
and  Arkansas  troops  engaged,  and  in  the  fight  had  become  separ 
ated  from  the  rest  of  the  command. 

I  being  the  senior  officer  present,  the  men  requested  me  to  take 
command,  which  I  did ;  and  at  once  commenced  to  form  a  line, 
with  the  assistance  of  Lieutenants  Gentles,  Pelican  Rifles,  Morse, 
Pelican  Rangers,  No.  1,  Hubbs,  of  McRea's  Regiment,  but  had 
gotten  but  few  of  them  in  line  when  we  were  flanked  by  a  body 
of  infantiy  on  the  left.  We  instantly  charged  them,  driving  them 
back  with  considerable  loss  on  their  side  and  but  little  on  ours — the 
above-named  officers  acting-  with  great  bravery  and  coolness.  I  par 
ticularly  noticed  the  conduct  of  Lieutenant  Henry  Gentles.  At 
times  I  saw  him  in  the  front  ranks,  using  his  gun  with  deadly  effect 
upon  the  enemy,  and  at  other  times  rallying  the  men  and  cheering 
them  on.  I  then  got  a  flag,  and  secured  a  guide — we  having  become 
lost  in  the  thicket — and  placing  the  flag  in  front,  formed  the  men 
in  line  and  started  for  the  field  we  had  left  in  the  morning. 

On  our  way  out  we  had  one  slight  skirmish  with  the  enemy,  pick 
ing  up  all  our  men  who  had  become  broken  down  in  the  fight. 

When  we  reached  the  field,  we  numbered  500  or  700  men,  com 
posed  of  various  regiments  engaged  in  the  fight  that  day. 

Here  I  sent  the  men  to  their  respective  commands,  taking  the 


142  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Louisiamans  who  were  with  me.  I  joined  the  remainder  of  the 
regiment  at  the  hospital  on  the  road.  My  men  at  this  time  were 
badly  used  up— some  were  unable  to  go  along  with  the  regiment ; 
others  went  in  search  of  food,  and  could  not  get  back  to  the  com 
pany  in  the  morning. 

I  never  saw  men  so  completely  worn  out  from  hunger  and  fatigue. 
We  slept  on  our  arms  that  night  until  3  o'clock  A.  M.,  when  we 
marched  to  General  Price's  headquarters  on  the  Telegraph  Road. 

We  were  ordered  on  a  hill  to  the  left  of  the  road,  and  remained 
there  during  a  heavy  cannonade  between  our  batteries  and  the 
enemy's. 

We  were  then  ordered  to  inarch  off  the  field,  which  we  did  in 
good  order. 

TLe  missing  of  my  company  are  as  follows :  Wounded — Frank 
Cane,  severely  (not  dangerously)  ;  missing — M.  F.  Miller,  James 
Kimball,  Julos  F.  Jus,  Charles  Wols,  John  Craig,  L.  J.  Singer  and 
Daniel  S.  Duval. 

I  have  the  honor,  Captain,  to  be  your  obedient  servant, 

Q.  B.  GILMORE, 
Captain  commanding  Shreveport  Rangers,  Third  La.  Vols. 

WHO    WAS    CAPTAIN   GILMORE'S   BODY   SERVANT  ? 

"  Old  Jeff"  was  a  great  favorite  in  the  regiment.  When  his  young 
master  joined  the  company  to  go  off  to  the  war,  Old  Jeff  was  nearly 
"  beside "  himself,  especially  when  he  was  informed  he  could  go. 
He  was  an  old  campaigner,  and  it  was  amusing  to  listen  to  his  tales, 
when  he  and  "  Ole  Massa"  fought  the  Indians  down  in  Florida.  Of 
course  he  knew  more  about  war,  and  how  it  should  be  conducted, 
than  any  darkey  in  the  regiment.  He  was  a  splendid  forager,  and 
his  mess  never  suffered  for  the  need  of  "  good  things." 

We  had  just  eaten  breakfast  on  the  morning  of  the  battle  of  Oak 
Hills ;  Jeff  was  putting  away  his  dishes  when  the  enemy  opened  fire 
on  our  camp.  Of  course  everything  was  in  commotion ;  the  regi 
ment  was  forming  to  take  its  position  on  that  bloody  field.  The 
care  of  the  company's  (F)  baggage  devolved  on  Jeff,  and  most  faith 
fully  did  he  guard  his  charge,  until  the  shells  came  crashing  and  ex 
ploding  over  the  camp.  He  could  not  stand  that,  nor  did  he  under 
stand  it.  "  They  did  not  throw  such  things  in  the  Indian  fights." 
He  forgot  his  charge,  and  hastened  to  discover  some  place  of  con 
cealment  ;  he  ran  and  ran  until  he  was  completely  exhausted ;  he 
knew  not  where  to  go.  He  laid  down  behind  a  log — a  shell  exploded 
near  the  spot —that  was  no  safe  place.  He  espied  Reid's  Battery 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  143 

busy  at  work  handling  their  guns,  and  thought  that  would  be  a  good 
place  for  protection.  After  reaching  the  spot  he  discovered  that  it 
was  all  but  safe.  In  hunting  about  he  found  a  place  to  hide  in — 
glory !  Alas !  he  found  one  of  his  fellow-servants  stove  into  the 
hollow  log  so  firmly,  that  he  was  unable  to  extricate  himself.  Poor 
Jeff !  for  six  long  weary  hours  he  was  running  from  place  to  place. 
Nowhere  could  he  find  a  spot  free  from  those  awful  bombs  that  fol 
lowed  him  with  such  pertinacity.  Everything  must  have  an  end — 
the  battle  closed— Old  Jeff  found  himself  safe  and  sound,  and  ren 
dered  a  great  deal  of  assistance  to  the  wounded.  He  often  after 
wards  remarked,  u  that  if  there  were  any  more  battles  he  would  stay 
out  of  the  way  of  the  bombs." 

Months  rolled  away;  the  army  was  once  again  on  the  eve  of 
another  battle,  camped  on  the  road  near  Elk  Horn  Tavern.  On  the 
morning  of  the  battle  of  that  name,  while  the  army  was  manoeuvring, 
Old  Jeff,  who  had  camped  about  six  miles  distant,  rode  up  on  a 
spirited  horse  with  breakfast  for  his  mess.  He  had  two  chickens 
nicely  fried,  about  a  dozen  biscuits,  some  coffee,  and  a  large  coffee 
pot  strapped  to  his  saddle.  He  rode  into  a  large  open  field  where 
the  Texas  cavalry  were  drawn  up  in  line,  and  made  inquiry  where 
his  command  could  be  found.  Scarcely  had  he  spoken,  when  he 
was  answered  by  the  enemy  (who  had  a  masked  battery  about  300 
yards  distant)  with  a  salute  of  four  guns.  Old  Jeff,  of  course,  was 
terribly  frightened.  Before  the  thunder  of  the  guns  had  died  away, 
General  Mclntosh  ordered  the  cavalry  to  charge— the  bugles  sounded 
the  charge — away  they  went  as  only  Texans  can  ride.  Where  was 
Old  Jeff?  He  tried  his  best  to  charge  in  the  opposite  direction  ;  his 
horse,  however,  did  not  relish  it,  and  took  it  into  his  head  to  follow 
his  companions. 

It  was,  indeed,  a  "  grand  spectacle "  to  see  Old  Jeff  gallantly 
charging  a  four-gun  battery,  with  an  old  coffee-pot  and  two  chickens 
dangling  from  his  saddle.  It  was  nobly  done — Old  Jeff  brought  up 
between  two  guns — the  batteiy  was  captured.  His  blood  was  up ; 
as  soon  as  he  got  control  of  his  horse  he  wheeled  him  about,  put 
him  in  full  gallop,  and  never  pulled  up  until  he  arrived  at  the  place 
where  he  camped  the  night  before.  He  brags  to  this  day  of  the 
gallant  charge  that  he  made.  His  mess,  however,  did  not  relish  such 
gallantry,  for  they  went  through  that  long  and  tiresome  day  without 
eating,  and  had  already  been  fasting  three  days  previously. 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

THE  RETREAT. 

AT  9  o'clock,  while  the  battle  was  still  raging  in  all  its  fierceness, 
the  order  was  given  to  retreat,  when  thousands  of  our  men,  eager  to 
meet  the  foe,  had  not  fired  a  shot.  The  troops  wTere  astounded. 
They  left  the  field  of  battle,  giving  vent  to  their  burning  thoughts 
in  bitter  words  and  deep  curses.  The  infantry  had  not  been  whipped. 
Wherefore  the  retreat  ?  It  is  a  mystery  which  has  never  been  satis 
factorily  explained.  Our  dead  and  wounded  were  left  behind,  to 
the  care  of  the  enemy.  The  retreat  was  an  acknowledgment  on  the 
part  of  our  leaders  of  their  inability  to  successfully  cope  with  the 
foe,  and  to  all  intents  and  purposes  we  were  whipped.  During  the 
whole  battle  General  Van  Dorn  remained  with  General  Price's  wing 
of  the  army.  His  presence  at  the  head  of  McCulloch's  Division,  to 
lead  and  direct  the  movements  of  these  troops,  would  have  enabled 
them  to  regain  all  the  ground  which  they  had  lost.  The  loss  of  the 
Louisiana  Regiment  was  16  killed,  37  wounded,  and  60  taken  pris 
oners.  The  loss  of  the  enemy  in  this  desperately  contested  battle 
was  computed  at  upwards  of  3,000—800  more  than  covered  the 
number  of  killed  and  wounded  of  the  Confederate  forces.  The 
enemy  precipitately  left  Arkansas  the  day  after  the  battle,  not  at 
tempting  to  pursue  the  Confederates,  who  were  likewise  rapidly 
retreating  southward. 

A  review  of  the  battle  shows,  perhaps,  that  more  desperate  fight 
ing  was  never  done  during  the  whole  campaign,  than  that  of  Hebert's 
Brigade.  They  charged  and  routed  successively  three  brigades  of 
the  enemy ;  fought  three  and  a  half  hours,  unsupported,  against  a 
largely  superior  force,  driving  them  back  over  a  mile,  and  only  de 
sisted  because  completely  exhausted  and  worn  out.  The  battery 
charged  and  held  so  long  belonged  to  Siegel's  brigade,  whose  men 
were  all  armed  with  Colt's  revolving  rifles,  every  man  having  an 
extra  cylinder  loaded  and  prepared  to  replace  the  discharged  one. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  145 

We  killed  outright  forty-seven  of  the  enemy's  cavalry,  who  charged 
into  the  open  field,  not  wounding  a  man.  The  Ninth  Iowa  Regiment 
lost  forty-seven  men  killed,  and  two  hundred  and  thirty-seven 
wounded.  Among  the  killed  were  four  captains.  One  of  the  pris 
oners  informed  us  that,  when  we  first  fired  on  their  forces,  out  of  a 
company  sent  forward  as  skirmishers,  ten  were  killed  and  forty 
wounded.  Such  are  a  few  of  many  facts  demonstrating  the  desper 
ate  character  of  the  fighting,  and  the  unerring  precision  and  deadly 
skill  with  which  the  Louisianians  used  their  arms.  This  regiment 
emerged  from  the  fight  covered  with  new  laurels.  The  foe  could 
not  be  convinced  that  it  was  the  only  Louisiana  regiment  in  the 
army,  and  frankly  acknowledged  the  desperate  valor  with  which 
they  fought. 

From  the  8th  of  March  the  Confederates,  scattered  and  disorgan 
ized,  steadily  retreated  towards  Van  Buren.  Every  by-way  and  high 
way,  cottage,  mansion,  and  cabin  was  filled  with  men  seeking  some 
thing  to  appease  their  starving  and  famished  condition.  They  ate 
everything  that  they  could  obtain — raw  corn,  potatoes,  turnips,  etc. 
If  one  was  fortunate  enough  to  obtain  a  few  morsels  of  ham  or  bacon, 
it  was  generously  divided  with  his  comrades,  and  ravenously  de 
voured  raw.  The  army  reached  Van  Winkle's  mills  (where  the 
lumber  for  winter-quarters  was  procured)  to  find  the  place  deserted, 
and  everything  left  behind.  Every  living  biped  and  quadruped  was 
immediately  killed  and  eaten.  At  the  door  of  the  house  stood  a 
slop-barrel,  nearly  full  of  refuse  provisions.  It  was  upset,  and  the 
men  scrambled  for  the  decayed  contents  like  a  drove  of  hogs.  From 
this  statement  some  conception  may  be  formed  of  the  starving  con 
dition  of  the  troops.  The  corn-bins  along  the  road  were  seized  by 
General  Rains'  cavalry  to  feed  the  stock,  sentinels  being  placed 
around  them  to  prevent  their  seizure  by  other  forces.  Such  was  the 
case  at  Van  Winkle's.  One  of  the  captains  of  the  Louisiana  Regi 
ment  observing  this,  went  among  the  men  and  said :  "  Boys,  I  am 

going  to  have  something  to  eat,  if  I  have  to  fight  the  whole  d d 

army.  Who  will  go  with  me  ?"  A  number  volunteering  were  or 
dered  to  get  their  guns  and  follow  him.  He  marched  the  squad  to 
the  corn-bin,  when  the  following  colloquy  took  place :  "  Whose  corn 
is  this?"  "General  Rains',''  replied  the  sentry.  "What  are  you 
going  to  do  with  it  ?''  "  Feed  the  stock.'!  "  Well,  by  G— d,"  re 
plied  the  captain,  "  I  have  had  nothing  to  eat  for  four  days,  and  I 
intend  to  have  some  of  this  corn.  Stand  aside,  and  let  me  pass." 
The  sentry  must  have  seen  the  ravenous  hunger  shining  from  the 
captain's  glittering  eyes,  as  well  as  known  the  desperation  evinced 
7 


146  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

by  his  manner  and  tone  of  voice.  He  permitted  the  captain  to  help 
himself,  which  he  did,  turning  to  the  men  and  saying,  "  Here,  boys, 
help  yourselves.  I  have  got  my  rations."  The  men  did  so,  and 
quietly  returned  to  their  camping-place.  One  evening,  Hart's  Bat 
tery,  with  several  of  the  Louisianians,  halted  on  the  roadside  near  a 
house  and  encamped.  They  were  wild  with  hunger.  Foraging 
parties  went  out  to  see  what  could  be  found  that  was  eatable.  They 
brought  back  a  quarter  of  a  yearling,  some  turnips  and  cabbage, 
piece  of  bacon,  a  turkey  and  a  goose.  Their  success  was  the  source 
of  great  rejoicing.  The  difficulty  occurred  to  them,  How  could 
they  cook  these  provisions  without  utensils  ?  "  Nil  desperandum," 
they  immediately  instituted  a  search,  resulting  in  the  discovery  of 
one  of  those  large  iron  kettles  so  common  in  the  country,  used  to 
boil  clothes  in  on  washing-days.  Without  troubling  themselves  with 
cleaning  it,  they  carried  it  to  camp,  set  it  on  stones,  and  built  a  huge 
fire  under  it,  first  nearly  filling  it  with  water.  Into  this  was  put 
beef,  turkey,  goose,  bacon,  turnips,  and  cabbage,  all  cut  into  small 
pieces.  The  men  then  each  made  a  wooden  spoon.  The  pot  boiled, 
bubbled,  and  sputtered  with  its  heterogeneous  mass  of  meat  and 
vegetables,  while  the  men  stood  around  it  with  eager  gaze,  watching 
the  process  of  cooking.  It  was  permitted  to  become  thoroughly 
done,  and  when  the  signal  was  given,  the  scalding  food  was  "  bolted" 
down  as  only  starving  men  can  eat.  Giving  the  experience  of  one 
of  that  party,  we  can  bear  testimony  that  it  was  considered  one  of 
the  most  delicious  repasts  ever  eaten — sweeter,  far,  than  the  divine 
ambrosial  of  the  immortal  gods  ! 

When  the  battle  was  lost,  the  train,  left  near  the  vicinity  of  Camp 
McCullocli,  immediately  returned  by  the  same  route  which  we  ad 
vanced  on.  Hence  the  lack  of  provisions.  It  was  well  guarded  by 
our  cavalry,  who  repulsed  several  attempts  of  the  enemy  to  capture 
it.  To  add  to  the  horrors  of  the  retreating  army,  tremendous  rain 
storms  occurred,  making  Frog  Bayou,  along  which  the  road  ran  and 
frequently  crossed,  a  deep  stream,  which  the  men  swam  and  waded 
innumerable  times,  many  losing  their  guns  in  it,  and  sometimes  al 
most  their  lives.  The  regiment  arrived  at  Van  Buren  in  straggling 
squads,  tired,  hatless,  barefooted,  hungry,  dirty,  and  ragged.  They 
had  been  in  rain-storms,  climbed  steep  mountains  along  narrow  and 
rugged  foot-paths,  waded  deep  and  cold  mountain  streams,  starved, 
slept  without  tents  or  blankets  on  the  wet  and  frosty  ground ;  in  fact, 
endured  untold  hardships  and  horrors.  The  retreat  was  more  dis 
astrous  than  a  dozen  battles.  The  Louisiana  Regiment  had  only  two 
hundred  and  seventy  men  in  a  body  on  the  retreat ;  other  regiments 


THIRD    LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  147 

in  the  same  proportion.  Our  physicians,  wounded,  and  nurses  were 
taken  prisoners,  and  the  ambulances  sent  for  the  wounded  seized. 
The  army  readied  Van  Buren  terribly  demoralized,  bringing  with 
them  five  hundred  Federals  and  eight  pieces  of  artillery  captured. 
When  the  army  began  its  retreat  Captain  Goocle,  of  the  First  Texas 
Battery,  was  not  apprised  of  the  movement,  being  in  charge  of  a 
large  number  of  guns.  When  he  discovered  the  fact  it  was  too  late 
to  follow  the  army.  He  immediately  started  for  Missouri,  with  the 
long  train  of  guns  following  him. 

After  traveling  some  distance,  Jie  left  the  main  road,  turning 
eastward  towards  White  River.  Down  this  stream  he  proceeded, 
following  rough  by-roads,  reaching  Van  Buren  in  safety.  Had  the 
enemy  been  apprised  of  his  retreat,  unprotected  as  he  was,  they 
would  have  captured  all  these  guns.  As  it  was,  Captain  Goode's 
persevering  energy  and  success  in  saving  them  immortalized  his 
name  in  the  army.  On  the  14th  of  March  a  flag  of  truce  was  sent 
to  the  enemy  with  two  lieutenant-colonels,  to  be  exchanged  for 
Colonel  Hebert  and  Major  Tunnard.  On  the  evening  of  March  24 
these  officers,  accompanied  by  Captain  Viglini,  arrived  at  Fort 
Smith,  where  the  army  was  encamped.  Their  return  was  greeted 
with  heartfelt  demonstrations  of  joy  by  all  the  regiment,  indicative 
alike  of  the  feelings  of  the  officers  and  men,  as  well  as  the  high 
estimation  in  which  they  were  held.  They  all  looked  sadly  debili 
tated  and  worn  out,  having  been  much  exposed,  as  well  as  scantily 
fed  during  their  stay  among  the  enemy,  who,  like  the  Confederates, 
were  short  of  provisions. 

BATTLE   OF   ELK   HORN. 

Official  Report  of  General  Van  Dorn. 

HEADQUARTERS  TRANS-MISS.  DISTRICT,      ) 
JACKSONPORT,  ARK.,  March  27,  1862.  f 

COLONEL, — I  have  the  honor  to  report  that,  while  at  Pocahontas, 
I  received  dispatches  on  the  22d  February  informing  me  that 
General  Price  had  rapidly  fallen  back  from  Springfield  before  a 
superior  force  of  the  enemy,  and  was  endeavoring  to  form  a  junction 
with  the  division  of  General  McCulloch  in  Baston  Mountain. 

For  reasons  which  seemed  to  me  imperative,  I  resolved  to  go  in 
person  and  take  command  of  the  combined  forces  of  Price  and 
McCulloch.  I  reached  their  headquarters  on  the  3d  of  March,  and 
being  satisfied  that  the  enemy,  who  had  halted  on  Sugar  Creek, 
was  only  waiting  large  reinforcements  before  he  would  advance,  T 


148  A   SOUTHERN   EECORD. 

resolved  to  attack  him  at  once.  Accordingly  I  sent  for  General 
Pike  to  join  me  with  the  forces  under  his  command,  and  on  the 
morning  of  the  4th  of  March  moved  with  the  divisions  of  Price  and 
McCulloch  by  way  of  Fayetteville  and  Bentonville  to  attack  the 
enemy's  main  camp  on  Sugar  Creek. 

On  the  6th  we  left  Elm  Spring  for  Bentonviile,  and  from  prisoners 
captured  by  our  scouting  parties  on  the  5th,  I  became  convinced 
that,  up  to  that  time,  no  suspicions  were  entertained  of  our  advance, 
and  that  there  were  strong  hopes  of  our  effecting  a  complete  sur 
prise  and  attacking  the  enemy  before  the  large  detachments  en 
camped  at  the  various  points  in  the  surrounding  country  could 
rejoin  the  main  body.  I  therefore  endeavored  to  reach  Benton 
ville,  eleven  miles  distant,  by  a  rapid  march  ;  but  the  troops  moved 
so  very  slowly  that  it  was  11  A.M.  before  the  head  of  the  leading- 
division  (Price's)  reached  the  village,  and  we  had  the  mortification 
of  seeing  Siegel's  Division,  7,000  strong,  leaving  it  as  we  entered. 
Had  we  been  one  hour  sooner  we  should  have  cut  him  off  with  his 
whole  force,  and  certainly  have  beaten  the  enemy  the  next  day. 

We  followed  him,  our  advance  skirmishing  with  his  rear-guard, 
which  was  admirably  handled,  until  we  had  gained  a  point  on  Sugar 
Creek,  about  seven  miles  beyond  Bentonville,  and  within  one  or 
two  miles  of  the  strongly- intrenched  camp  of  the  enemy. 

In  conference  with  Generals  McCulloch  and  Mclntosh,  who  had 
accurate  knowledge  of  this  locality,  I  had  ascertained  that,  by 
making  a  detour  of  eight  miles,  I  could  reach  the  Telegraph  Head, 
leading  from  Springfield  to  Fayetteville,  and  be  immediately  in  rear 
of  the  enemy  and  his  intrenchments. 

I  had  resolved  to  adopt  this  route,  and  therefore  halted  the  head 
of  the  column  near  the  point  where  the  road  by  which  I  had  pro 
posed  to  move  diverges,  threw  out  my  pickets,  and  bivouacked  as 
if  for  the  night.  But  soon  after  dark  I  marched  again,  with  Price's 
Division  in  advance,  and  taking  the  road  by  which  I  hoped,  before 
daylight,  to  gain  the  rear  of  the  enemy.  Some  obstructions  which 
he  had  hastily  thrown  in  our  way  so  impeded  our  march  that  we  did 
not  gain  the  Telegraph  Road  until  nearly  10  A.  M.  of  the  7th.  From 
prisoners  with  forage-wagons,  whom  our  cavalry  pickets  brought  in, 
we  were  assured  that  we  were  not  expected  in  that  quarter,  and  that 
the  promise  was  fair  for  a  complete  surprise. 

I  at  once  made  dispositions  for  attack,  and  directing  General 
Price  to  move  forward  cautiously,  soon  drew  the  fire  of  a  few 
skirmishers,  who  were  rapidly  reinforced,  so  that  before  11  o'clock 
we  were  fairly  engaged,  the  enemy  holding  very  good  positions,  and 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  149 

maintaining  a  heavy  fire  of  artillery  and  small-arms  upon  the  con 
stantly  advancing  columns  which  were  being  pressed  upon  him. 

I  had  directed  General  McCulloch  to  attack  with  his  forces  the 
enemy's  left,  and  before  10  o'clock  it  was  evident  that,  if  his  divis 
ion  could  advance  or  even  maintain  its  ground,  I  could  at  once 
throw  forward  Price's  left,  advance  his  whole  line  and  end  the  battle. 
I  sent  him  a  dispatch  to  this  effect,  but  it  was  never  received  by 
him.  Before  it  was  penned  his  brave  spirit  had  winged  its  flight, 
and  one  of  the  most  gallant  leaders  of  the  Confederacy  had  fought 
his  last  battle.  » 

About  3  p.  M.  I  received  by  aids-de-camp  the  information  that 
Generals  McCulloch  and  Mclntosh  and  Colonel  Hebert  (incorrect) 
were  killed,  and  that  the  division  was  without  any  head.  I  never 
theless  pressed  forward  with  the  attack,  and  at  sunset  the  enemy 
was  flying  before  our  victorious  troops  at  every  point  in  our  front, 
and  when  night  fell  we  had  driven  him  entirely  from  the  field  of 
battle.  Our  troops  slept  upon  their  arms  nearly  a  mile  beyond  the 
point  where  he  made  his  last  stand,  and  my  headquarters  for  the 
night  were  at  the  Elk  Horn  Tavern.  We  had  taken  during  the  day 
seven  cannon  and  about  two  hundred  prisoners. 

In  the  course  of  the  night  I  ascertained  that  the  ammunition  was 
almost  exhausted,  and  that  the  officer  in  charge  of  the  ordnance 
supplies  could  noi  find  his  wagons,  which,  with  the  subsistence  train, 
had  been  sent  to  Bentonville.  Most  of  the  troops  had  been  with 
out  any  food  since  the  morning  of  the  6th,  and  the  artillery  horses 
were  beaten  out.  It  was  therefore  with  no  little  anxiety  that  I 
awaited  the  dawn  of  day.  When  it  came,  it  revealed  the  enemy  in 
a  new  and  strong  position,  offering  battle. 

I  made  my  dispositions  at  once  to  accept  the  gage,  and  by  7 
o'clock  the  cannonading  was  as  heavy  as  that  of  the  previous  day. 
On  the  side  of  the  enemy  the  fire  was  much  better  sustained ;  for 
being  freed  from  the  attack  of  my  right  wing,  he  could  now  concen 
trate  his  whole  artillery.  Finding  that  my  right  wing  was  much  dis 
organized,  and  that  the  batteries,  one  after  another,  were  retiring 
from  the  field,  with  every  shot  expended,  I  resolved  to  withdraw  the 
army,  and  at  once  placed  the  ambulances,  with  all  of  the  wounded  they 
could  bear,  upon  the  Hunts ville  road,  and  a  portion  of  McCulloch's 
division  which  had  joined  me  during  the  night,  in  position  to  fol 
low — while  I  so  disposed  of  my  remaining  forces  as  best  to  deceive 
the  enemy  as  to  my  intention,  and  to  hold  him  in  check  while  execut 
ing  it. 

About  10  o'clock  I  gave  the  order  for  the  column  to  march,  and 


150  A    SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

soon  afterwards  for  the  troops  engaged  to  fall  back  and  cover 
the  rear  of  the  army.  This  was  done  very  steadily  ;  no  attempt  was 
made  by  the  enemy  to  follow  us,  and.  we  encamped,  about  3  o'clock 
p.  M.,  about  ten  miles  from  the  field  of  battle.  Some  demonstrations 
were  made  by  his  cavalry  upon  my  baggage  trains  and  the  batteries 
of  artillery,  which  returned  by  different  routes  from  that  taken  by 
the  army  ;  but  they  were  instsatly  checked,  and,  thanks  to  the  skill 
and  courage  of  Colonel  Stone  and  Major  Wade,  all  the  baggage  and 
artillery  joined  the  army  in  safety. 

So  far  as  I  can  ascertain,  our  losses  amounted  to  six  hundred 
killed  and  wounded  and  two  hundred  prisoners  and  one  cannon, 
which,  having  become  disabled,  I  ordered  to  be  thrown  into  a 
ravine. 

The  best  information  I  can  procure  of  the  enemy's  loss  places  his 
killed  at  more  than  700,  with  at  least  an  equal  number  wounded. 
We  captured  about  300  prisoners,  so  that  his  total  loss  is  nearly 
2,000.  We  brought  away  four  cannon  and  ten  baggage-wagons, 
and  we  burnt  upon  the  field  three  canon  taken  by  Mclntosh  in  his 
brilliant  charge.  The  horses  having  been  killed,  these  guns  could 
not  be  brought  away. 

The  force  with  which  I  went  into  action  was  less  than  14,000  men  ; 
that  of  the  enemy  variously  estimated  at  from  17,000  to  24,000. 

During  the  whole  of  this  engagement  I  was  with  the  Missouri 
Division  under  Price,  and  I  have  never  seen  better  fighters  than 
those  Missouri  troops,  or  more  gallant  leaders  than  General  Price  and 
his  officers.  From  the  first  to  the  last  shot  they  continually  pushed 
on,  and  never  yielded  an  inch  they  had  won ;  and  when  at  last  they 
received  the  order  to  fall  back,  they  retired  steadily  and  with  cheers. 
General  Price  received  a  severe  wTound  early  in  the  action ;  but 
would  neither  retire  from  the  field  nor  cease  to  expose  himself  to 
danger.  No  successes  can  repair  the  loss  of  the  gallant  dead  who 
fell  upon  this  well-fought  field.  McCulloch  was  the  first  to  fall.  I 
had  found  him,  in  the  frequent  conferences  I  had  with  him,  a  saga 
cious,  prudent  counselor,  and  a  bolder  soldier  never  died  for  his 
country. 

Mclntosh  had  been  very  distinguished  all  through  the  operations 
which  had  taken  place  in  this  region  ;  and  during  my  advance  from 
Baston  Mountain  I  placed  him  in  command  of  the  cavalry  brigade 
and  in  charge  of  the  pickets.  He  was  alert,  daring,  and  devoted 
to  his  duty.  His  kindness  of  disposition,  with  his  reckless  braveiy, 
had  attached  the  troops  strongly  to  him ;  so  that,  after  McCulloch 
fell,  had  he  remained  to  lead  them,  all  would  have  been  well  with 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  151 

my  right  wing  ;  but  after  leading  a  brilliant  charge  of  cavalry  and 
carrying  the  enemy's  battery,  he  rushed  into  the  thick  of  the  fight 
again  at  the  head  of  his  old  regiment  and  was  shot  through  the 
heart.  The  value  of  these  two  officers  was  but  proven  by  the  effect 
of  their  fall  upon  the  troops.  So  long  as  brave  deeds  are  admired 
by  our  country,  the  names  of  McCulloch  and  Mclntosh  will  be  re 
membered  and  loved. 

General  Slack,  after  gallantly  maintaining  a  continued  and  suc 
cessful  attack,  was  shot  through  the  body ;  but  I  hope  his  distin 
guished  services  will  be  restored  to  his  country.  A  noble  boy, 
Churchill  Clark,  commanding  a  battery  of  artillery,  and  during  the 
fierce  actions  of  the  7th  and  8th,  was  conspicuous  for  the  daring  and 
skill  which  he  exhibited.  He  fell  at  the  very  close  of  the  action. 
Colonel  Rivers  fell  mortally  wounded  about  the  same  time,  and  was 
a  great  loss  to  us.  On  a  field  where  were  many  gallant  gentlemen, 
I  remember  him  as  one  of  the  most  energetic  and  devoted  of 
them  all. 

To  Colonel  Henry  Little  my  especial  thanks  are  due  for  the  cool 
ness,  skill  and  devotion  with  which  for  two  days  he  and  his  gallant 
brigade  bore  the  brunt  of  the  battle.  Colonel  Burbridge,  Colonel 
Rosser,  Colonel  Gates,  Major  Lawther,  Major  Wade,  Captain  McDon 
ald,  and  Captain  Shauinberg,  are  some  of  those  who  attracted  my 
special  attention  by  their  distinguished  conduct. 

In  McCulloch's  Division,  the  Louisiana  Regiment,  under  Colonel 
Louis  Hebert,  and  the  Arkansas  Regiment,  under  Colonel  McRae,  are 
especially  mentioned  for  their  good  conduct.  Major  Montgomery, 
Captain  Bradfute,  Lieutenants  Lomax,  Kimmel,  Dillon,  and  Frank 
Armstrong,  A.  A.  G.,  were  ever  active  and  soldierly.  After  their 
services  were  no  longer  required  with  their  own  division,  they  joined 
my  staff,  and  I  am  much  indebted  to  them  for  the  efficient  aid  they 
gave  me  during  the  engagement  of  the  8th.  They  are  meritorious 
officers,  whose  value  is  lost  to  the  service  by  their  not  receiving  rank 
more  accordant  with  their  merit  and  experience  than  that  they  now 
hold.  Being  without  my  proper  staff,  I  was  much  gratified  by  the 
offer  of  Colonel  Shands  and  Captain  Barret,  of  the  Missouri  Army, 
of  their  services  as  aids.  They  were  of  very  great  assistance  to  me 
by  the  courage  and  intelligence  with  which  they  bore  my  orders ; 
also  Colonel  Lewis,  of  Missouri. 

None  of  the  gentlemen  of  my  personal  staff,  with  the  exception 
of  Colonel  Maury,  A.  A.  G.,  and  Lieutenant  C.  Sullivan,  my  aid-de 
camp,  accompanied  me  from  Jacksonport,  the  others  having  left  on 
special  duty.  Colonel  Maury  was  of  invaluable  service  to  me,  both 


152  A  SOUTHEEN  RECORD. 

in  preparing  for  and  during  the  battle.  There,  as  on  other  battle 
fields  where  I  have  served  with  him,  he  proved  to  be  a  zealous  pa 
triot  and  true  soldier.  Cool  and  calm  under  all  circumstances,  he 
was  always  ready  either  with  his  sword  or  his  pen.  His  services  and 
Lieutenant  Sullivan's  are  distinguished;  the  latter  had  his  horse 
killed  under  him  while  leading  a  charge,  the  order  for  which  he  had 
just  delivered. 

You  will  perceive,  Colonel,  from  this  report,  that  although  I  did 
not  capture,  as  I  hoped,  or  destroy  the  enemy's  army  in  Western 
Arkansas,  I  have  inflicted  upon  it  a  heavy  blow  and  compelled  him 
to  fall  back  into  Missouri ;  this  he  did  about  the  16th  inst.  For 
further  details  concerning  the  action,  and  for  more  particular  notices 
of  the  troops  engaged,  I  refer  you  to  the  reports  of  the  subordinate 
officers  which  accompany  this  report. 

Very  respectfully,  sir,  your  obedient  servant, 

EARL  VAN  DORN,  Major-  General. 
Col.  W.  W.  MACKALL,  A.  A.  G. 

BRIGADIER-GENERAL  BEN  M'CULLOCH. 

General  Ben  McCulloch  arrived  in  Texas  from  his  native  State, 
Tennessee,  just  in  time  to  command  a  portion  of  the  artillery  on  the 
plains  of  San  Jacinto,  April  21st,  1836,  over  thirty  years  ago.  He 
was  then  barely  twenty-one  years  of  age,  but  won  general  admiration 
from  that  band  of  heroes.  That  was  the  opening  of  his  military 
career.  For  the  ten  succeeding  years  he  resided  upon  the  exposed 
Indian  frontier  of  the  infant  republic,  and  so  fully  was  his  time  given 
to  the  Indian  wars  that  he  followed  -no  other  business.  His  time 
passed  in  a  succession  of  hardships  and  dangers  such  as  few  men 
have  seen,  in  which  he  displayed  undaunted  courage,  indomitable 
will,  and  the  highest  characteristics  of  the  scout,  the  captain,  the 
strategist,  and  iron-nerved  fighter.  He  was  never  outwitted  or  de 
feated  by  the  wily  savage,  which  is  saying  a  great  deal.  When  the 
Mexican  war  broke  out,  McCulloch,  refusing  the  command  of  a  regi 
ment,  took  the  field  as  captain  of  General  Taylor's  spy  company.  In 
that  capacity  his  services  were  of  the  most  dangerous  and  important 
character ;  and  we  have  General  Taylor's  authority  for  saying  he 
performed  every  act  well  and  thoroughly.  He  succeeded  in  every 
enterprise,  and  at  Monterey  gained  unfading  laurels,  especially  in 
storming  the  Bishop's  Palace,  where  his  friend  Gillespic  fell.  He 
continued  in  the  same  arduous  service  until  the  close  of  the  war, 
always  enjoying  the  highest  confidence  of  the  veteran  General,  who 
intrusted  enterprises  to  him  that  he  would  commit  to  no  one  else. 


TRIED   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  153 

McCulloch  was  the  first  to  notify  Taylor  of  the  approach  of  Santa 
Anna  with  five  times  his  number,  and  to  advise  him  to  fall  back 
from  Encarnacion  to  the  stronger  position  at  Buena  Vista,  in  all  of 
which  none  can  deny  he  saved  our  army  from  surprise  and  con 
sequent  destruction.  On  that  bloody  field  he  received  the  public 
and  official  thanks  of  General  Taylor  for  his  heroic  conduct  and 
valuable  services. 

General  McCulloch  served  in  the  Texan  Congress  of  1839,  and  the 
Legislature  of  1845,  the  only  political  positions  that  he  ever  held. 
In  1846,  when  war  was  upon  us,  and  he  in  Mexico,  he  was  unani 
mously  elected  Major-General  of  all  Western  Texas.  In  1849  he 
went  to  California,  and  was  at  once  elected  Sheriff  of  Sacramento. 
For  the  last  eight  years  prior  to  secession  he  was  United  States 
Marshal  for  Texas,  and  in  that  time  was  sent  as  Commissioner  to 
Utah,  and  next  to  Arizona.  He  was  twice  offered  the  governorship 
of  territories,  and  was  appointed  Major  of  U.  S.  Cavalry,  all  of  which 
he  declined. 

The  moment  Lincoln's  election  became  known,  McCulloch  identi 
fied  himself  with  Texas  as  an  unconditional  secessionist,  and  repaired 
to  Texas  to  take  part  in  any  movement  that  might  grow  out  of  the 
presence  of  over  3,000  U.  S.  troops  in  that  State.  He  was  unani 
mously  selected  by  the  Committee  of  Public  Safety  to  raise  the  men 
necessary  to  compel  the  surrender  of  San  Antonio,  with  its  arsenal 
and  the  neighboring  forts,  four  or  five  in  number. 

Within  four  days  he  had  traveled  one  hundred  and  fifty  miles, 
and  stood  before  San  Antonio  with  eight  hundred  armed  men,  his 
old  comrades  and  neighbors.  His  mission  succeeded.  Texas  looked 
to  him  with  confidence  as  one  of  her  strong  pillars  in  case  of  war. 
She  sent  him  abroad  to  procure  arms ;  but  before  he  had  fully  suc 
ceeded  the  President  appointed  him  Brigadier-General  and  assigned 
him  to  the  command  of  the  Indian  Territory,  without  men,  money, 
arms,  or  munitions. 

He  reached  Fort  Smith  late  in  May,  his  only  companions  being 
Major  Montgomery  and  Colonel  Mclntosh.  He  immediately  pro 
ceeded  with  his  customary  energy  to  organize  an  army,  and,  above 
all,  secure  the  co-operation  of  the  Indian  tribes.  Thus  in  June,  1861, 
he  was  on  a  mission  among  the  Indians,  resulting  in  laying  the 
foundation  of  their  final  adherence  to  the  Confederate  cause.  He 
next  turns  up  as  the  hero  of  the  brilliant  exploit  at  Neosho,  Mo. 
Next  we  find  him  organizing  that  gallant  little  brigade  composed  of 
Arkansians,  who  so  gallantly  distinguished  themselves  at  the  battle 
of  Oak  Hills. 
7* 


154  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Disrobed  of  the  Arkansas  troops  after  this  battle,  and  left  with 
three  or  four  reduced  regiments,  he  took  position  at  Camp  Jackson, 
in  order  to  recruit  and  drill  an  army,  collect  supplies  and  munitions, 
and  endeavor  to  prepare  for  effective  operations  against  the  enemy. 
It  was  at  this  period  that  letter-writers,  and  great  minds,  who  never 
saw  an  army,  attacked  his  character  as  a  General,  knowing  more 
about  his  resources  and  strength — when,  where,  and  how  he  ought 
to  move— all  about  his  duties  and  responsibilities,  than  himself. 
Still  he  heeded  not  the  clamor  raised  against  him.  Sickness  ravaged 
his  band  to  an  astonishing  degree  (the  Third  Louisiana  was  a  fair 
specimen  of  the  condition  of  the  men  at  that  period)  ;  recruits,  for 
two  months,  did  not  come  at  all ;  the  Arkansas  River  was  very  low ; 
the  Indians,  in  part,  were  surly  and  doubtful ;  the  Jayhawkers  of 
Kansas  were  tampering  with  them  and  menacing  Northwestern  Ar 
kansas,  and  finally  the  splendid  regiments  that  served  to  give  him  a 
goodly  army  arrived  too  late  for  a  fall  campaign. 

The  army  started  on  an  expedition  against  Kansas,  but  was  turned 
back  by  the  advance  of  the  Federals  under  Fremont  pursuing  the 
forces  under  General  Price.  His  plans  were  changed  to  meet  this 
emergency,  and  his  forces  co-operated  with  those  of  General  Price 
to  check  Fremont's  advance.  How  assiduously  General  McCulloch 
labored  to  annoy  the  enemy  it  is  needless  to  state.  The  blockaded 
roads,  the  expeditions  of  the  cavalry,  led  by  himself,  attest  his 
ceaseless  activity,  untiring  energy,  and  sleepless  vigilance.  After  Fre 
mont's  retreat,  General  McCulloch  went  to  Eichniond  on  a  mission 
connected  with  his  department. 

While  absent  on  this  trip,  an  address,  written  by  J.  W.  Tucker, 
in  behalf  of  the  Missourians,  "  To  the  people  of  the  Confederate 
States,"  dated  Springfield,  Mo.,  December  24,  1861,  was  published 
in  the  Arkansian,  a  Fayetteville  (Ark.)  paper.  In  that  address  oc 
curred  the  following  passage  :  "  With  the  exception  of  the  battle  of 
Springfield,  not  a  sword  has  been  drawn  for  the  release  of  Missouri 
save  by  her  own  sons.  At  that  memorable  battle  (Oak  Hills)  the 
Confederate  commander  was  asked  for  the  assistance  of  three  regi 
ments  to  pursue  a  defeated  and  disorganized  foe,  where  7,000  men 
and  $1,000,000  worth  of  property  were  within  our  reach  ;  but  General 
Price  asked  in  vain.  So  his  requests  were  responded  to  when 
he  went  to  fight  the  battles  of  Dry  Wood  and  Lexington.  Not 
aided,  not  supplied  with  a  single  precussion-cap,  for  the  want  of 
which  latter  article  he  was  compelled  to  fall  back  two  hundred 
miles  with  an  army  of  20,000  men.  During  this  trying  period,  within 
which  the  State  could  have  been  disenthralled,  our  Confederate  allies 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  155 

have  maintained  tbeir  camp  on  our  Southern  border  in  inglorious 
inactivity,  not  even  protecting  Missouri  from  Kansas  Jayhawkers. 
We  know  these  allied  troops  are  as  brave  men  as  ever  went  to  battle, 
and  that  they  chafed  like  a  caged  lion  to  join  the  Missourians  in 
their  well-sustained  resistance ;  but  these  troops  had  no  orders  to 
move.  Can  this  be  explained  ?  There  was  no  enemy  to  fight  in 
Arkansas,  and  the  army  of  Missouri  was  in  every  action  and 
movement  guarding  the  gates  of  Arkansas,  Louisiana,  and  Texas." 

To  this  attack  on  his  motives,  plans  and  movements,  General  Mc- 
Culloch  published  the  following  reply  in  the  Richmond  Whig  : 

GENERAL    M'CULLOCH's   REPLY. 

To  the  Editor  of  the  Richmond  Whig: 

In  your  issue  of  yesterday  there  is  a  communication  signed  "  J. 
W.  Tucker,"  in  answer  to  which  I  think  proper  to  make  the  follow 
ing  reply,  which  you  will  please  give  a  place  in  your  paper  : 

Your  correspondent  says  :  "  With  the  exception  of  the  battle  of 
Springfield  not  a  sword  has  been  drawn  for  the  release  of  Missouri 
except  by  her  own  sons."  On  the  4th  of  July  General  Pearce,  of 
Arkansas,  and  myself,  with  all  the  forces  we  could  command, 
marched  to  aid  the  Governor  of  the  State  in  cutting  his  way  through 
his  enemies,  capturing  over  100  of  the  enemy  at  Neosho,  a  point 
where  we  expected  to  attack  Siegel  with  his  whole  command. 

So  much  for  his  first  assertion.  He  further  says,  speaking  of  the 
battle  of  Oak  Hills :  "  The  Confederate  Commander  was  asked  for  the 
assistance  of  three  regiments  to  pursue  a  defeated  and  disorganized 
foe,  when  7,000  men  and  over  $,100,000  worth  of  property  were 
within  our  reach  ;  but  General  Price  asked  in  vain." 

Immediately  after  the  battle  was  over,  and,  in  truth,  before  all  my 
forces  had  returned  from  the  pursuit  of  the  enemy,  orders  were 
issued  for  the  wounded  to  be  brought  from  the  battle-field,  the 
dead  to  be  buried,  and  the  army  to  be  ready  to  march  after  the 
enemy  that  night  We  did  not  march  for  the  want  of  ammunition. 
Several  of  my  officers  informed  me  (when  they  heard  the  order) 
that  some  of  their  men  had  fired  their  last  cartridge  at  the  enemy,  as 
we  had  only  twenty-five  rounds  to  the  man  before  the  battle  began, 
and  no  more  within  hundreds  of  miles.  After  a  conference  with 
General  Price,  it  was  thought  best  to  "  let  well  enough  alone."  As 
to  being  asked  for  three  regiments,  I  have  no  recollection  of  any 
such  request. 

So  much  for  his  second  assertion. 

Now  for  his  third  assertion,  in  which  he  wishes  to  convey  the 


156  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

idea  that  I  had  not,  nor  would  not  aid  Missouri  with  a  man,  a  gun, 
or  a  percussion-cap,  and  that  I  would  not  even  protect  Missouri 
against  the  Arkansas  Jayhawkers.  At  the  time  General  Pearce,  of 
Arkansas,  and  myself  first  entered  Missouri  on  the  4th  of  July,  we 
loaned  General  Price  some  six  hundred  and  fifteen  muskets.  When 
our  forces  formed  a  junction  at  Cassville,  Colonel  Hebert,  of  Louis 
iana,  at  my  request,  loaned  a  Missouri  officer  about  one  hundred 
muskets.  I  have  several  times  since  given  the  Missourians  the  last 
cap  I  could  spare  from  my  own  command.  Let  those  officers  say 
how  many  of  their  muskets  were  returned.  General  Pearce,  I  learned, 
recovered  ten,  while  Colonel  Hebert  was  only  able  to  get  a  portion 
of  those  he  loaned.  Besides,  it  is  a  well-known  fact  that  the  arms 
of  our  dead  and  wounded  were  taken  from  the  battle-field ;  nor  did 
we  get  any  of  the  small-arms  left  by  the  enemy. 

As  to  the  Kansas  Jayhawkers  and  our  inglorious  idleness !  My 
mounted  men  gave  protection  to  the  whole  country  on  the  borders 
of  Missouri  for  one  hundred  miles  north  of  the  Arkansas  line  from 
immediately  after  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills  until  in  October,  when 
General  Price  retreated  from  Lexington  to  that  section  of  the  State. 

So  much  for  these  charges. 

It  will  be  remembered  that  I  was  assigned  to  the  command  of  the 
Indian  Territory,  with  orders  to  defend  it  from  invasion  from  any 
quarter ;  consequently,  my  participation  in  the  battle  at  Oak  Hills 
was  upon  my  own  responsibility,  with  a  reliance  of  being  sustained 
by  my  own  Government. 

As  to  my  men  chafing  like  a  caged  lion  to  join  the  Missourians, 
I  must  say  this  is  new  to  me.  It  might  be  supposed  that  the  Louis 
iana  Keginient  was  exceedingly  anxious  to  march,  exposed  to  the 
sun  and  rain,  with  men  covered  with  ninety-five  tents  taken  from 
themselves  by  order  of  a  Missouri  general.  These  tents  had  the 
extra  clothing  of  the  men  rolled  in  them,  and  were  stored  with  a 
merchant  in  Cassville  at  the  time  we  marched  upon  Springfield, 
and  were  taken  out  of  his  possession  by  order  of  Brigadier-General 
Parsons,  conveyed  on  the  same  road  with  that  regiment,  and  not  a 
word  of  them  or  their  contents  mentioned  to  me  afterwards  by  any 
Missourian. 

If  this  was  not  enough  to  make  the  gallant  Louisiana  Regiment 
chafe  like  a  caged  lion  to  go  with  General  Price,  they  only  had  to 
refer  to  his  official  report  of  the  battle  of  Ouk  Hills  to  see  how  com 
pletely  they  had  been  deprived  of  the  glory  of  taking  Colonel  Sie- 
gel's  battery,  which  they  did  at  the  point  of  the  bayonet. 

As  to  the  troops  from  Arkansas,  they  were  likely  to  "  chafe  like  a 


TRIED   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  157 

caged  lion  "  because  they  were  not  permitted  to  go  with  their  coun 
try  rifles  and  shot  guns,  and  see  how  they  handled  the  muskets  they 
borrowed  and  would  not  return. 

Then  there  are  the  Texans !  They  "  chafed  like  a  caged  lion  "  be 
cause  they  could  not  have  the  opportunity  to  capture  another  flag 
and  piece  of  artillery  to  be  appropriated  by  the  Missourians,  whilst 
they  (the  Texans)  were  continuing  to  pursue  the  enemy. 

Perhaps  all  these  gallant  men  were  likely  to  chafe  like  a  caged 
lion  because  they  could  not  march  with  men  who  took  possession  of 
every  mill  and  every  blacksmith-shop  in  the  surrounding  country, 
and  at  the  same  time  placed  a  guard  over  every  store  in  Springfield, 
taking  what  they  contained  and  applying  it  to  their  own  use ;  thus 
depriving  these  men  of  the  chance  of  obtaining  a  change  of  linen,  a 
pound  of  breadstuffs,  or  a  horse  shod  until  after  their  wants  were 
supplied. 

I  greatly  fear  the  effort  of  J.  "W.  Tucker  to  disparage  the  gallant 
soldiers  of  Arkansas,  Louisiana,  and  Texas,  and  to  deprive  them  of 
their  just  share  of  the  glory  of  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills,  will  add 
little  to  the  good  feeling  which  every  true  patriot  should  desire  to 
see  prevail  among  the  soldiers  of  the  different  States  at  this  time. 

I  have  not  thought  proper,  heretofore,  to  notice  any  of  the  mis 
representations  going  the  rounds  of  the  newspapers.  First,  because 
they  had  no  responsible  endorser,  and  secondly,  because  I  hoped,  for 
the  sake  of  a  common  cause,  that  there  should  be  no  war  of  words 
among  ourselves,  when  the  enemy  were  to  be  met  with  the  sword. 

This  hope  has  failed,  and  I  am  compelled  to  notice  this  publica 
tion  lest  my  silence  be  construed  as  an  admission  of  the  truth  of  Mr. 
Tucker's  statements— it  being  well  known  that  I  was  in  Richmond 
at  the  time  his  communication  was  published. 

In  conclusion,  permit  me  to  warn  my  countrymen,  and  to  beg  of 
them,  not  to  put  too  much  reliance  in  sensation  articles  written  and 
published  for  effect.  Up  to  the  present  time  the  country  knows 
nothing  of  what  has  been  done  in  Missouri. 

I  have  the  honor  to  be  your  obedient  servant, 

Richmond,  January  17£A,  1862.  BEN  McCuLLocn. 

"  General  McCulloch,'5  says  a  correspondent,  writing  from  Camp 
Jackson,  Arkansas,  September  30th,  1861,  "has  been  at  his  post  all 
the  time.  He  is  as  vigilant  as  a  tiger.  Every  day  at  some  time  a 
man,  dressed  in  dark  clothes,  wearing  a  brown  hat,  with  thin  flow 
ing  locks,  may  be  seen  galloping  across  the  prairie.  One  evening 
last  week,  as  we  were  out  on  regimental  (Third  Louisiana)  drill,  just 


158  A   SOUTHERN   EECOED. 

before  sun-down,  a  vast  multitude  of  spectators  belonging  to  the 
various  companies,  battalions,  etc.,  having  come  out,  a  horseman  was 
seen  approaching  at  a  fast  gallop.  Every  person  knew  him.  It  was 
General  McCullocli.  He  rode  up  to  the  left  wing  and  spoke  kindly 
and  familiarly  to  Captain  Viglini,  and  then  said  '  Good  evening,' 
politely  and  cheerfully,  to  all.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Hyams  being 
busy  making  some  remarks,  the  General  rode  up  to  the  Adjutant,  and 
remarked,  '  Why  are  you  not  on  duty,  are  you  sick  ?'  '  Yes,'  was 
the  reply.  After  conversing  a  few  moments  he  said,  '  I  must  go  and 
see  the  Colonel.'  The  Colonel  by  this  time  had  the  line  at  a  shoul 
der  arms.  As  the  General  passed,  'present  arms!'  was  the  com 
mand.  The  General  of  course  acknowledged  it  in  his  own  unique 
and  immortal  style.  Perhaps  the  character  of  none  of  our  public 
men  is  so  much  misunderstood  as  that  of  General  McCulloch.  He  is 
a  Tennesseean  by  birth  and  a  Texan  by  adoption.  He  is  a  border 
man,  an  Indian  fighter,  and  a  ranger.  Is  this  all  ?  I  had  fancied 
him  a  perfect  devil,  a  backwoodsman,  a  ruffian,  an  unpolished  des 
perado. 

u  General  McCulloch  is  a  medium-sized  man ;  perhaps  he  might 
be  called  a  small  man,  with  brown  hair  and  whiskers.  He  doubtless 
has  been  handsome,  and  is  still  good-looking  for  a  man  of  his  age. 

"A  nice  boot,  well  fitted  to  his  foot ;  close,  trim-made  clothes,  and, 
as  before  mentioned,  a  brown  hat,  neither  high  nor  low,  but  of  the 
planter  style,  with  very  clean,  nice  vest,  short,  sleek  boots,  gloves, 
and  spurs,  are  the  characteristics  of  his  dress.  His  person  is  very 
neat  and  pleasant,  slim,  thin,  and  a  small  roundness  of  shoulders. 
He  is  as  fine  a  horseman  as  ever  sat  in  saddle.  Age  has  left  its  mark 
on  his  countenance.  His  face  is  weather-beaten  and  brown  from 
exposure ;  numerous  crow-feet  creep  out  from  his  somewhat  sunken 
eyes.  I  think  he  would  weigh  about  one  hundred  and  forty  pounds, 
and  I  would  take  him  to  be  fifty  years  old,  judging  from  his  looks ; 
and  he  is  all  that  he  has  ever  been  represented — a  bold,  graceful 
rider,  a  desperate  fighter,  a  reckless  charger,  a  border  man,  and  an 
Indian  fighter  of  the  highest  type.  Had  he  lived  in  the  days  of 
chivalry,  he  would  have  been  a  knight  of  the  most  superior  class. 
More  than  this,  General  Ben  McCulloch  is  a  great  man.  Mentally 
he  is  of  the  sanguine-bilious  temperament — a  perfectly  positive  man. 
There  is  no  half-way  ground  about  him,  no  medium  decision,  no 
compromise,  no  guessing.  It  is,  or  it  is  not.  with  him.  It  can,  or  it 
cannot  be ;  and  if  the  world  should  decide  against  him,  or  all  the 
officers  in  his  Division,  I  believe  his  own  conscientiousness  would 
prompt  him  to  say,  as  would  Jackson,  '  I'll  take  the  responsibility  !' 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  159 

One  of  the  strongest  features  in  his  mind  is  its  precision,  its  clear 
ness.  Individuality  is  strongly  marked.  He  is  not  a  talkative  man, 
and  consequently  not  a  very  sociable  one.  He  seems  to  be  separate, 
self-existant,  independent,  original.  I  do  not  think  any  one  ever 
knows  his  plans.  He  is  an  indefatigable  student  and  thinker,  and 
never  loses  any  time.  Of  whatever  subject  his  mind  is  directed  to, 
he  has  very  exalted  ideas.  He  seems  desirous  of  bringing  his  troops 
to  the  very  highest  point  of  discipline  and  military  power.  He  de 
tests  stragglers  and  loafers.  He  loves  order  and  decency.  The  first 
time  the  command  was  ever  called  out  in  line  of  battle  at  Crane 
Creek,  about  August  1st,  as  we  were  formed,  the  "  long  roll  "  beating 
vigorously,  and  our  backs  being  toward  a  ravine,  down  which  the 
enemy's  cannon  balls  were  expected,  this  command  passed  down  the 
line,  viz. :  '  Steady,  men,  General  McCulloch  is  loading  the  cannon 
himself.'  On  the  next  day  General  Rains  attacked  the  enemy,  and 
as  we  were  formed  on  a  hillside  to  protect  our  battery,  vast  numbers 
of  stragglers  came  in,  thundering  past  us.  Finally,  Captain  Mcln- 
tosh,  with  one  hundred  and  fifty  scouts,  came  in,  endeavoring  to 
draw  the  enemy  after  them  and  to  us  on  the  hillside.  It  seemed  as 
if  the  enemy  would  arrive  immediately,  but  General  McCulloch  came 
in  finally  with  two  companies,  the  very  last  man.  As  he  passed  us 
he  said,  *  The  enemy  have  stopped  to  take  dinner,  come  on,  boys,  we 
will  go  and  take  dinner  too.'  He  has  a  very  fine  rifle  which  he 
always  carries.  This  is  his  only  weapon  or  soldierly  insignia.  On 
the  morning  we  left  Crane  Creek  General  McCulloch  exhibited  the 
greatest  coolness.  In  person  he  would  go  three  miles  over  the  prairie 
with  his  staff  in  search  of  the  enemy." 

Such  is  a  most  perfect  pen  sketch  by  a  Missourian  (J.  H.  Robert 
son),  of  McCulloch  as  Confederate  leader  of  the  Western  Army  in 
1861.  It  was  his  individuality,  reliance  on  his  own  personal  obser 
vations,  regardless  of  extraneous  assistance,  which  led  him  to  need 
lessly  expose  himself  at  Elk  Horn.  Forbidding  his  staff  to  follow 
him,  he  departed  to  make  personal  observations  and  reconnoitre  the 
enemy's  position,  ere  ordering  the  mass  of  his  troops  into  battle. 
Already  the  Louisianians  were  desperately  engaged,  and  their  fierce 
volleys  and  wild  cheers  told  that  they  were  accomplishing  the  work 
cut  out  for  them.  But  McCulloch  came  not  back.  He  was  shot 
through  the  heart  by  a  concealed  marksman  of  the  enemy,  finally  a 
victim  to  his  fearless  temerity.  As  a  leader,  McCulloch  was  idolized 
by  his  troops,  and  almost  worshipped  by  the  Louisianians,  and  his 
death  was  bitterly  lamented  as  only  lion-hearted,  brave  men  can 
lament  over  the  fall  of  an  idolized  chieftain.  General  McCulloch's 


160  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

body  was  conveyed  to  Little  Rock  and  there  interred,  surrounded  by 
a  vast  concourse  of  citizens  and  soldiers.  Undoubtedly  his  death, 
so  quickly  followed  by  that  of  General  Mclntosh,  occasioned  the  loss 
of  the  battle,  as  no  more  of  his  division  were  ordered  to  the  support 
of  those  few  regiments  who  fought  so  desperately  and  successfully 
on  that  blood-stained  field. 

Multiplied  words  can  add  nothing  to  his  fame.  It  is  as  eternal 
as  the  granite  hills.  His  body  moulders  in  a  soldier's  grave.  The 
Emerald  sward,  and  doubtless  sweet  flowers,  planted  there  by  loving 
hands,  cover  his  honored  remains.  Of  all  the  martyr  graves  that 
dot  Southern  hill-sides  and  valleys,  none  contain  the  remains  of  a 
nobler  soul,  a  more  fearless  and  chivalric  spirit,  a  more  efficient  com 
mander,  a  more  idolized  chieftain,  than  that  which  holds  the  mortal 
portion  of  Brigadier-General  Ben  McCulloch. 

BKIGADIEB-GENEKAL   M'lNTOSH. 

General  James  Mclntosh  was  a  native  of  Virginia.  He  graduated 
at  West  Point,  and  was  Colonel  in  the  United  States  service  at  the 
commencement  of  the  war,  commanding  a  regiment  of  cavalry 
on  the  Western  frontier,  at  Fort  Smith,  when  hostilities  first  began. 
With  the  secession  of  Virginia,  and  that  chivalrous  spirit  worthy  of 
his  native  State,  he  linked  his  fortunes  to  those  of  the  Confeder 
acy.  He  soon  raised  a  fine  regiment  of  cavalry  in  Arkansas,  and 
joined  McCulloch's  little  army ;  was  appointed  Adjutant- General 
of  McCnlloch's  Brigade,  and  eventually  received  a  commission  as 
Brigadier-General  of  Cavalry  a  short  period  previous  to  the  battle 
of  Elk  Horn.  At  the  battle  of  Oak  Hills  he  first  met  his  old  regi 
ment.  So  much  had  he  become  endeared  to  this  body  of  regulars 
that  nearly  a  whole  company  deserted  and  linked  their  fortunes  to 
the  Confederate  cause,  becoming  General  McCulloch's  body-guard — 
a  company  of  stalwart,  efficient  and  brave  men.  General  Mclntosh 
was  a  fearless  rider,  a  reckless  fighter,  a  dashing  horseman.  He  was 
beloved  by  the  whole  army.  In  his  death  the  Confederates  lost  one 
of  their  most  gallant  officers.  The  records  written  of  him  in  this 
work  are  true  criterions  wherewith  to  judge  his  character  and  effi 
ciency.  His  gallant  charge  at  the  head  of  his  brigade  at  Elk  Horn 
was  one  of  the  most  brilliant  incidents  of  the  war.  General  Mc 
lntosh  was  a  medium-sized  man,  with  keen,  black  eyes,  raven  hair 
and  whiskers.  Without  doubt,  he  was  descended  from  Indian  stock. 
Many  claimed  that  he  was  a  Cherokee  by  birth — an  erroneous  sup 
position.  In  his  death  the  Confederate  States  lost  an  officer  who 
would  have  made  a  brilliant  record. 


CHAPTER   XX. 

THE     MARCH     EASTWARD. 

AFTER  a  short  stay  at  Van  Buren,  when  the  different  commands 
had  become  reorganized  and  recuperated  somewhat  from  their  ex 
haustion,  the  regiment  left  for  Fort  Smith.  From  this  point  they 
departed  eastward  in  the  latter  part  of  March,  their  destination 
being  Little  Rock.  On  the  march,  Lieutenant  F.  R.  Brunot,  of 
Company  K,  died,  and  received  a  soldier's  burial  amid  the  wilds  of 
Arkansas.  Frank,  generous  to  a  fault,  a  lively  companion  and  brave 
soldier,  his  loss  was  severely  felt,  especially  by  the  members  of  the 
company  to  which  he  belonged.  A  lawyer  by  profession,  he  pos 
sessed  talents  of  no  ordinary  character.  Lieutenant  O.  J.  Wells 
appointed  A.  C.  S.  of  Regiment,  March  21,  1862.  The  whole  army 
was  now  on  the  move,  concentrating  toward  the  Mississippi  Valley. 
Fort  Smith  and  our  Western  border  was  being  abandoned.  To 
many  this  seemed  an  uncalled-for  movement,  and  complaints  loud 
and  bitter  were  uttered.  The  movement  was  easily  and  satisfactorily 
explained.  There  was,  then,  no  danger  to  be  apprehended  from  an 
invading  army.  Why  ?  Simply  because  Southwestern  Missouri 
and  Northwestern  Arkansas  were  a  desolate  waste,  having  been 
stripped  of  nearly  everything  calculated  to  supply  an  army.  Even 
with  a  friendly  country  in  the  rear,  it  was  found  impossible  to 
supply  the  Confederate  army  with  the  necessary  means  of  subsist 
ence.  Hence,  it  was  argued,  it  would  be  impossible  for  the  enemy 
to  subsist  an  army  so  far  removed  from  their  base  of  operations  as 
they  would  be  by  invading  Arkansas,  among  a  people  too  hostile  to 
them,  with  destruction  constantly  threatening,  not  only  their  sup 
ply-trains,  but  also  their  pickets  and  foraging  parties.  The  enemy 
were  well  aware  of  these  facts,  and  hence  moved  rapidly  northward 
after  the  battle  of  Elk  Horn.  They  were  nearly  starved  out  while 
in  the  State,  both  before  and  after  the  battle. 

Everything  at  this  time  indicated  a  terrible  and  desperate  contest 


162  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

for  the  possession  of  the  Mississippi  Valley,  and  troops  from  both 
sides  were  rapidly  concentrating  for  the  fearful  struggle.  The 
regiment  was  now  attached  to  the  Second  Brigade  of  General 
Priced  army,  under  command  of  Colonel  Hebert,  who  was  reported 
as  having  received  a  commission  as  brigadier-general.  Assuredly 
no  officer  was  more  worthy  of  such  distinction  than  the  brave  and 
skillful  Colonel  of  the  Third  Regiment. 

The  sick-list  of  the  regiment  was  very  large — the  result  of  late 
hardships.  They  had,  however,  comfortable  hospitals  both  for  the 
sick  and  wounded  at  Little  Rock,  whose  patriotic  ladies  were  un 
tiring  in  their  endeavors  to  ameliorate  the  sufferings  of  the  brave 
soldiers  thus  brought  to  their  beautiful  little  city. 

It  is  a  mournful  spectacle  to  see  so  many  once  strong  and  robust 
men  wasting  away  'neath  the  ravages  of  disease,  far  from  home  and 
friends,  uncared  for  save  by  a  few  rough  comrades.  No  soft  hand 
soothes  the  fevered  brow;  no  loving  face  bends  over  the  atten 
uated  features  as  the  angel  of  death  sets  his  seal  there.  The  soldier 
can  gaze  unmoved  on  the  fearful  scenes  of  a  battle-field ;  tread  un- 
caringly  over  the  dead  and  dying ;  remain  untouched  by  the  spec 
tacle  of  mangled  limbs  and  ghastly  wounds ;  but  the  sight  of  a 
soldier  dying  from  disease,  with  an  accompanying  thought  of  home 
and  the  loved  ones  there,  will  unnerve  the  stoutest  heart.  There 
will  ever  remain  the  remembrance  of  a  scene  witnessed  on  the  Ar 
kansas  River. 

A  steamer  on  a  bar  fast  aground,  the  ruddy  glare  of  a  pine-torch 
glittering,  glistening,  and  dancing  on  the  eddying  stream,  united 
with  the  hoarse  whisper  of  the  steam-engine  mingling  with  the 
voices  of  men  and  the  rattle  of  the  capstan  as  the  huge  spar  was 
made  to  perform  its  work.  Silently  two  coffins  were  lowered  into 
a  yawl,  followed  by  three  or  four  soldiers.  We  watched  it  recede 
into  the  darkness.  Soon  a  lantern's  feeble  rays,  like  the  fire-fly's 
transient  light,  appeared  on  shore,  then  vanished  in  the  gloom  and 
darkness  of  night. 

Not  long  was  it  ere  two  rough  boxes  were  lowered  into  new- 
made  graves  and  fresh  mounds  of  earth  marked  the  spot  where,  on 
on  the  banks  of  the  lonely  river,  reposed  two  of  the  sons  of  liberty. 
These  humble  graves  of  patriots,  buried  in  an  unmarked  spot,  are 
still  remembered. 

"  By  fairy  hands  their  knell  is  rung ; 
By  forms  unseen  their  dirge  is  sung  ; 
Their  honor  comes — a  pilgrim  gray — 
To  bless  the  turf  that  wraps  their  clay. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  163 

And  Freedom  shall  awhile  repair 
To  dwell,  a  weeping,  hermit  there." 

The  regiment  left  Camp  Poteau,  Ark.,  on  the  28th  of  April.  A  long, 
weary  march  was  before  them,  notwithstading  their  recent  terrible 
sufferings  and  exhaustion.  Day  by  day  they  toiled  through  the 
swamps.  Oftentimes  the  wagons  would  not  arrive.  Heavy  storms 
constantly  arose  ;  there  were  no  tents  or  shelter ;  the  mud  was  knee- 
deep  ;  the  streams  swollen — often  waded.  Roads  were  repaired  and 
bridges  built ;  then  they  were  water-bound.  It  seemed  as  if  all  the 
tortures  and  sufferings  of  years  were  being  poured  out  in  one  huge 
vial  of  wrath  upon  these  heroic  spirits. 

On  the  13th  most  of  the  First  Brigade  arrived  near  the  forks  of 
Citron  Creek,  some  distance  above  Little  Rock.  Here  McDonald's 
celebrated  Missouri  battery  was  attached  to  the  Third  Louisiana. 
The  regiment  reached  Little  Rock  on  the  16th  and  were  warmly 
welcomed.  With  five  days1  rations  cooked,  the  regiment  left  Little 
Rock  for  Beaureguard's  army  at  Corinth,  on  board  the  steamers 
Louisville  and  Kentucky.  The  ladies  of  Little  Rock  gathered  on 
the  banks  of  the  river,  and  there  was  the  flutter  of  innumerable 
handkerchiefs  as  the  boats  steamed  away  down  the  stream.  The 
men  were  in  high  spirits  over  the  change  in  their  mode  of  traveling. 

Major  Tunnard,  on  account  of  bodily  infirmities  resulting  from 
the  horrors  and  hardships  encountered  in  Arkansas,  obtained  a  fur 
lough  at  Little  Rock.  Thus  the  regiment  was  left  in  command  of 
a  senior  captain.  Down  the  river — out  once  more  upon  the  broad 
Mississippi — how  the  heart  went  out  in  warm  throbs  towards  the 
loved  ones ;  how  the  spirit  yearned  for  a  journey  clown  the  stream. 
But  no  !  Up  the  river  the  boats  proceeded,  and  the  regiment  was 
disembarked  at  Memphis  on  the  27th,  and  proceeded  to  encamp  in 
the  upper  portion  of  the  city,  immediately  on  the  river  bank. 

Reported  to  General  Van  Doran. 

The  discipline  enforced  among  the  men  here  was  very  rigid. 
Dress  parade  twice  daily,  and  roll-call  five  times,  much  to  the  annoy 
ance  of  the  troops.  Memphis  was  alive  with  forces  hastening  to 
wards  Corinth,  Miss.,  the  threatened  point  of  attack.  Against  Fort 
Pillow  above,  and  Forts  Jackson  and  St.  Philip  below,  powerful 
fleets  were  in  operation,  and  the  dark  gloom  of  disaster  hung  like  a 
funeral-pall  over  the  land. 

On  the  30th  of  April  the  regiment  once  more  was  on  the  move. 
They  were  in  splendid  spirits,  and  marched  through  the  streets  of 
Memphis  with  firm  and  regular  tread.  They  attracted  universal 


164:  A   SOUTHEEN   RECORD. 

attention,  and  received  a  perfect  ovation — the  streets  being  crowded 
•with  men  and  fair  ladies,  who  greeted  them  most  enthusiastically. 
On  their  way  to  the  depot  of  the  Mississippi  and  Ohio  Railroad 
they  passed  a  seminary  where  a  bevy  of  handsome  young  ladies  had 
congregated — a  rare  bouquet  of  nature's  most  beautiful  flowers. 
There  was  the  fluttering  of  innumerable  handkerchiefs,  and  each 
company  returned  the  greeting  in  loud  cheers  as  they  passed  this 
galaxy  of  beauty.  Several  of  the  ladies  gave  the  men  their  delicate 
little  cambric  handkerchiefs  as  souveniers. 

Left  Memphis  in  company  with  five  other  trains,  all  loaded  with 
troops,  and  reached  Corinth  on  the  first  day  of  May.  The  country 
around  this  place  was  low  and  marshy,  the  water  impure  and  un 
healthy. 


CHAPTER    XXI. 

EVENTS   AT   CORINTH. 

THE  regiment  now  belonged  to  General  G.  T.  Beauregard's  Army 
of  the  West.  A  tremendous  army  was  congregated  here.  Entrench 
ments  thrown  up  on  all  sides,  protected  by  heavy  abattis  of  felled 
timber,  and  frowning  with  artillery  of  every  description  and  calibre. 
Skirmishing  with  the  enemy  was  a  daily  occurrence ;  but  the  Con 
federates  felt  hopeful  and  confident  of  success  when  the  issue  should 
be  made. 

On  the  3d  our  pickets  were  driven  in,  and  on  the  morning  of 
Sunday,  the  4th,  the  regiment  left  camp  very  early  and  proceeded  to 
the  intrenchments,  where  they  remained  until  the  afternoon,  in  a 
heavy  rain,  drenching  all  to  the  skin.  The  whole  army  was  in  mo 
tion  this  day,  but  nothing  important  transpired.  The  men  were 
kept  in  a  state  of  feverish  excitement  and  anxious  expectation,  con 
fronting,  as  they  were,  a  powerful  force  of  the  foe,  with  whom  we 
were  daily  skirmishing,  and  being  under  orders  to  move  at  a  mo 
ment's  notice. 

On  the  6th,  news  reached  the  army  of  the  fall  of  New  Orleans.  It 
was  astounding  intelligence  to  the  army,  and  caused  intense  excite 
ment.  Orders  were  issued  for  a  reorganization  of  the  regiment,  by 
the  election  of  field  and  company  officers,  as  our  term  of  service  was 
about  expiring.  For  many  days  the  men  had  been  discussing  the 
question  of  their  discharge,  looking  joyfully  forward  to  a  reunion 
with  the  loved  ones  at  home,  and  forming  plans  for  the  future.  But 
they  were  in  the  power  of  strong  military  authority,  and  could  not 
leave  the  army  without  being  immediately  seized  and  forced  to  re 
turn  under  the  late  Conscript  Act  of  Congress.  The  excitement  and 
dissatisfaction  was  intense.  General  Price  issued  an  order  promis 
ing  furloughs  to  the  regiment  if  victorious  in  the  approaching 
battle,  and  closing  his  order  with  a  fine  tribute  to  the  gallantry 
of  the  regiment.  Outside  of  the  question  of  their  discharge,  the 


166  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

men  were  in  high  spirits.  Orders  were  read  to  move  early  in  the 
morning.  The  men  were  under  arms  at  3  A.  M.  on  the  morning  of 
the  7th,  and  at  8  o'clock  in  motion.  They  marched  about  six 
miles,  and  formed  line  of  battle  in  a  strip  of  woods  immediately  in 
the  rear  of  an  open  field,  on  the  right  of  the  whole  army.  The 
country  was  rolling  ground.  The  road  ran  parallel  to  the  position, 
and  then  abruptly  turned  off  at  a  right  angle  leading  between  two 
large  open  fields  skirted  by  a  belt  of  timber.  Beyond  these  fields 
were  the  enemy's  pickets.  Thus  the  outposts  of  the  two  huge 
armies  confronted  and  watched  each  other's  motions.  The  enemy 
were  reported  as  only  two  miles  distant.  This  might  be  the  day 
before  the  great  battle.  The  sun  looked  lovingly  down  upon  this 
scene  of  spring  beauty.  The  breeze  sighed  in  murmuring,  softened 
whispers  amid  the  emerald  foliage  of  the  trees,  while  the  subdued 
sound  of  voices  and  suppressed  laughter  of  the  men  died  away  on 
the  morning  air.  O'er  the  soul  swept  memories  of  boyhood's  years  ; 
the  picture  of  a  cottage  home  embowered  in  trees ;  the  vision  of  a 
mother's  and  sister's  loved  forms.  It  was  a  day  for  reveries  and 
dreamings,  even  amid  all  the  surroundings  of  grim-visaged  war. 
The  next  day  the  election  for  officers  was  ordered.  The  old  excite 
ment  revived,  and  a  large  number  of  the  men  positively  refused  to 
have  anything  to  do  with  the  reorganization.  In  many  instances 
officers  were  elected  by  a  minority  vote  of  the  members  of  the  com 
panies.  In  the  choice  of  officers  there  was  almost  an  entire  revolu 
tion  in  the  regiment.  The  old  officers  were  thrown  aside  and  privates 
chosen  to  command  the  different  companies — men  who  had  shown 
themselves  worthy  of  the  confidence  thus  reposed  in  them.  After 
the  election  of  company  officers,  those  chosen  assembled  to  vote  for 
field  officers.  While  the  voting  was  in  progress,  orders  were  re 
ceived  to  move  immediately,  and  soon  the  whole  army  was  in  mo 
tion.  We  marched  about  three  miles  and  laid  down  on  the  ground 
without  blankets  or  shelter,  the  roar  of  artillery  being  the  music 
that  lulled  the  men  to  sleep. 

On  Friday  the  9th,  Price's  army  was  aroused  early,  and  soon  on 
the  march.  Under  the  direction  of  General  Van  Dorn  the  division 
pushed  forward  in  a  south-east  direction  from  Corinth ;  and  after 
crossing  swamps,  marching  in  line  of  battle  through  dense  under 
brush,  over  hill-tops,  and  across  deep  valleys,  we  halted  to  rest.  At 
12  M.  four  guns  lired  in  rapid  succession  gave  the  signal  to  push  for 
ward.  The  object  was  to  penetrate,  in  an  easterly  direction,  to  the 
north  of  Farmington,  where  the  enemy  were  in  force,  and  cut  off 
their  retreat  towards  Eastport  on  the  Tennessee  River,  while  the  main 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  167 

body 'of  the  army  attacked  them  in  front.  Company  K  was  thrown 
out  as  skirmishers  in  front  of  the  regiment.  After  a  long  and 
wearisome  advance,  we  suddenly  came  upon  the  flank  of  the  enemy, 
whom  our  forces  had  engaged  in  front,  when  they  precipitately  re 
treated  to  prevent  being  surrounded  and  captured.  We  took  Farni- 
ington,  the  bridge  they  had  constructed  across  the  swamp,  a  large 
supply  of  clothing,  etc.  The  bridge  was  destroyed,  also  a  large 
gin  containing  cotton.  Farmington  is  situated  in  the  centre  of  a 
succession  of  large,  open  fields.  The  fight  lasted  four  hours,  result 
ing  in  few  casualties  on  our  side.  The  regiment  obtained  a  large 
number  of  letters,  which  furnished  some  information  and  a  great 
deal  of  amusement  to  the  boys.  Some  of  these  letters  were  rich 
specimens  of  orthography  and  penmanship,  and  not  very  flattering 
to  the  morals  in  certain  portions  of  the  North.  This  sharp  engage 
ment  caused  much  enthusiasm  among  the  troops,  and  the  Third 
Regiment  regained  their  old  spirit  and  determination  under  the 
prospect  of  an  early  fight  with  the  foe. 

On  the  10th  the  balloting  for  field  officers  was  resumed,  resulting 
finally  in  the  selection  of  the  following  officers: 

Roll  of  officers  elected  on  the  reorganization  of  the  Regiment, 
May  8,  1862  :  Colonel,  F.  C.  Armstrong  ;  Lieutenant-Colonel,  J.  B. 
Gilmore  ;  Major,  S.  D.  Russell ;  Surgeon,  P.  F.  Whitehead  ;  Quarter 
master,  John  Hanna ;  Commissary,  F.  Gallagher ;  Chaplain,  A. 
Dicharry ;  Adjutant,  J.  H.  Brigham. 

Co.  A. — J.  Kinney,  Captain  ;  W.  Babiu,  1st  Lieutenant ;  J.  Ra- 
mouin,  2d  Lieutenant ;  J.  S.  Randolph,  2d  Junior  Lieutenant. 

Co.  B. — D.  C.  Morgan,  Captain  ;  J.  Davenport,  1st  Lieutenant ; 
W.  P.  Renwick,  2d  Lieutenant ;  T.  L.  Beauchamp,  2d  Lieut.,  Jr. 

Co.  C. — N.  M.  Middlebrook,  Captain ;  A.  Emanuel,  1st  Lieuten 
ant  ;  A.  W.  McCain,  2d  Lieutenant ;  W.  T.  Fagan,  2d  Lieutenant,  Jr. 

Co.  D.— W.  E.  Russell,  Captain ;  S.  M.  Hyams,  Jr.,  1st  Lieuten 
ant  ;  B.  O.  Morse,  2d  Lieutenant ;  G-.  L.  Frichel,  2d  Lieutenant  Jr. 

Co.  E.— O.  Brashear,  Captain ;  R.  C.  Holt,  1st  Lieutenant ;  J.  C. 
Turpin,  2d  Lieutenant ;  -  — .  2d  Jr.  Lieutenant. 

Co.  F. — W.  Kinney,  Captain ;  L.  M.  Dunclon,  1st  Lieutenant ;  J. 
O.  Clark,  J.  Horn,  2d  Lieutenants. 

Co.  G.— W.  B.  Butler,  Captain ;  F.  Gainirie,  1st  Lieutenant ;  P. 
L.  Prudhomme,  J.  Paul  Bassier,  2d  Lieutenants. 

Co.  H. — J.  S.  Richards,  Captain;  C.  Hedrick,  1st  Lieutenant; 
A.  W.  Carroll,  J.  M.  Stuart,  2d  Lieutenants. 

Co.  I. — J.  E.  Johnson,  Captain  ;  J.  E.  Hanna,  1st  Lieutenant ;  T. 
Me  B.  Meredith,  2d  Lieutenant ;  J.  R.  Cottingham,  2d  Jr.  Lieut. 


163  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Co.  K. — H.  H.  Gentlis,  Captain ;  J.  B.  Irwin,  1st  Lieutenant ;  J. 
D.  Williams,  2d  Lieutenant ;  A.  B.  Payne,  2d  Jr.  Lieutenant. 

Who  does  not  remember  the  handsome,  gay  and  dashing  Frank 
Armstrong  ?  The  same  gallant  officer  who  afterwards,  under  General 
Forrest  as  Major-Gen eral  of  cavalry,  gained  an  enviable  name  for 
bravery  and  efficiency  in  this  arm  of  the  service.  Colonel  Armstrong 
was  an  old  army  officer,  hence  a  strict  disciplinarian.  Of  fine  per 
sonal  appearance  and  commanding  bearing,  he  looked  what  he  really 
was,  every  inch  a  soldier.  When  the  men  were  on  duty  he  required 
and  expected  a  strict  observance  of  every  military  regulation  and 
order.  There  must  be  no  laxity  in  any  particular.  Yet  when  the 
men  were  free  from  duty  they  could  approach  Colonel  Armstrong 
with  the  assurance  that  they  would  be  treated  as  gentlemen  and 
equals.  He  was  always  affable,  kind,  and  courteous  in  his  intercourse 
with  the  men.  Colonel  Armstrong  appreciated  the  position  of  the 
early  volunteers.  He  knew  that  a  majority  of  them  were  men  of 
refinement  and  education,  of  high  social  position  previous  to  their 
becoming  soldiers,  hence  in  his  intercourse  with  them  there  was  no 
assumption  of  unapproachable  superiority.  Some  idea  may  be 
formed  of  the  estimation  in  which  he  was  held  when  it  is  stated 
that  the  men,  when  speaking  of  him  to  each  other,  invariably  called 
him  Frank  Armstrong.  It  was  a  rarity  for  any  of  them  to  prefix  his 
title  to  his  name.  Such  was  the  officer  chosen  to  lead  the  regiment. 
One  whom  the  men  learned  to  honor  for  his  soldierly  qualities,  and 
love  with  an  idolatry  second  only  to  their  devotion  to  the  lamented 
McCulloch. 

Lieutenant-Colonel  Gil  more  was  born  in  Jefferson  County,  Ken 
tucky,  in  1827,  and  came  to  Shreveport  in  1849.  He  was  one  of  the 
first  captains  of  the  regiment ;  is  a  man  of  nervous  excitability,  with 
a  temperament  that  flashed  up  like  gunpowder  when  fire  is  applied 
to  it.  He  was  with  all  his  excitability  a  fearless  officer,  always  at 
his  post  in  the  hour  of  danger.  The  Major,  S.  D.  Russell,  a  spare 
made  man,  with  hair  and  whiskers  slightly  tinged  with  gray,  was 
almost  the  opposite  of  Colonel  Gilmore,  being  slow  in  motion,  sel 
dom  losing  command  of  his  temper,  or  becoming  unduly  excited. 
He  was  calm  and  dignified  in  his  bearing,  firm,  steady,  and  courage* 
ous  in  battle. 

On  Sunday,  May  llth,  Company  K  was  sent  out  on  picket,  and 
afterwards  relieved  by  Company  A.  Skirmishing  was  a  daily  occur 
rence,  and  the  roar  of  artillery  was  such  a  common  sound  as  to  at 
tract  little  attention.  The  camp  of  the  Third  Regiment  at  this  time 
was  in  an  open  woods,  rolling  ground,  outside  of  Corinth.  While 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  169 

here  they  received  a  supply  of  tents.  What  shelters  !  They  looked, 
when  stretched,  as  if  an  army  of  rag-pickers  had  encamped  there; 
and  these  tents  were  put  up  as  signs  of  their  occupation.  In  ap 
pearance,  however,  the  men  were  little  supciior  to  their  shelters. 
Almost  constantly  under  arms  or  on  duty,  little  time  or  opportunity 
was  given  them  to  attend  to  their  apparel  or  cleanliness  of  their 
persons.  Hence  they  were  ragged  and  filthy.  Their  fare  at  this 
time  was  crackers  and  salt  meat,  not  very  wholesome  diet  assuredly. 
On  the  12th  our  Adjutant,  S.  M.  Hyams,  Jr.,  left  the  regiment,  having 
been  appointed  to  the  command  of  the  Fifth  Arkansas  Regiment. 
On  the  13th  the  regiment  was  still  on  picket  in  the  position  pre 
viously  described.  The  morning  was  clear,  the  sun  shining  with 
pencilled  rays  through  the  overhanging  branches  of  the  trees,  decked 
in  their  tender  Spring  foliage,  Birds  carolled  their  matin  songs, 
while  in  the  direction  of  Corinth  arose  the  sound  of  the  morning 
drum  and  the  clarion  voice  of  the  bugle.  A  dash  on  the  lines  was 
momentarily  expected,  and  the  men  were  watchful  and  quiet.  The 
drums  and  brass  bands  of  the  enemy  could  be  distinctly  heard  from 
our  position.  Truly  it  was  a  strange  spectacle.  Two  armies  within 
sound  of  each  other,  the  line  of  pickets  on  opposite  sides  of  the 
same  field,  the  men  standing  looking  over  the  fence  with  eager, 
searching  gaze,  or  leaning  listlessly  on  their  loaded  pieces,  watching 
for  the  foe,  determined  to  take  human  life  if  an  opportunity  offered. 
Thus  affairs  remained  until  late  in  the  afternoon,  when  an  unexpected 
visitor  in  the  form  of  a  six-pound  rifle  shell  dropped  among  the  men. 
The  scream  and  explosion  of  this  missile  were  heard  ere  the  report 
of  the  piece  from  which  it  was  discharged  echoed  over  the  field. 
This  missile  was  followed  by  others  in  rapid  succession.  Several  men 
were  wounded  and  bruised  both  by  the  shells  and  the  falling  limbs 
cut  off  from  the  trees  overhead.  The  regiment  was  ordered  to  fall 
back  into  a  ravine  in -the  rear  of  their  position.  The  order  was  mis 
understood.  Now  occurred  one  of  those  scenes  which  cannot  be 
accounted  for,  and  which  frequently  happens  among  the  bravest 
troops.  There  was  a  hurried  rush  by  the  whole  regiment  to  the 
rear,  resulting  almost  to  a  panic,  many  of  the  men  running  at  the  top 
of  their  speed  across  the  adjacent  hills.  The  pickets,  however,  stood 
their  ground,  owing  to  the  determination  of  the  captain,  H.  H. 
Gentles,  commanding  them.  Through  the  strenuous  exertions  of  the 
officers,  the  regiment  was  soon  rallied  and  advanced  to  their  original 
position.  It  was  laughable  then  to  hear  the  men  blame  each  other, 
and  saying  they  didn't  run.  Oh,  no  !  Distinguished  for  gallantry 
and  bravery  they  felt  ashamed  and  mollified  at  their  conduct,  which 
8 


170  A    SOUTHERN    RECORD. 

after  all  was  only  the  result  of  a  misunderstanding  of  orders.  Pre 
vious  to  the  opening  of  the  battery  an  old  negro  man  attempted  to 
pass  the  lines  and  was  arrested  and  sent  back  to  headquarters  and 
released.  He  returned  with  a  pass  and  was  allowed  to  proceed 
towards  the  enemy's  lines.  In  a  very  few  moments  he  came  back, 
and  on  being  asked  if  he  had  seen  any  soldiers  replied,  "  Lots  of  men 
coming  on  foot  and  on  horses.  They  wasn't  Yankees.  Oh  !  no,  but 
friends."  The  black  scoundrel,  it  was  afterwards  believed,  had  be 
trayed  our  position,  as  the  battery  had  fired  with  a  precision  of 
range  conclusively  showing  that  they  were  not  shooting  at  random. 
Could  the  men  have  caught  the  dark  hued  rascal,  there  would  have 
been  a  case  of  lynch-law,  as  their  exasperation  was  very  great.  A 
large  body  of  cavalry  and  infantry  had  approached  our  position, 
driving  in  the  Confederate  cavalry,  who  precipitately  fled  through 
the  line,  leaving  the  regiment  alone  to  picket  between  the  two  huge 
armies.  A  portion  of  their  cavalry  made  a  dash  on  the  line,  but 
were  driven  back.  One,  however,  was  taken  prisoner.  He  belonged 
to  the  First  U.  S.  Regular  cavalry,  whom  he  abused  as  cowards  in 
no  very  complimentary  language.  He  refused  to  dismount  when  or 
dered,  saying  he  "  never  had  walked  in  his  life,  and  he'd  be  d d 

if  he  was  going  to  now,  for  all  the  rebels  in  Christendom."  He  was 
speedily  taught  a  lesson  of  obedience  to  orders  by  the  men,  not  pre 
scribed  in  Hardee's  Tactics. 

The  regiment  was  relieved  from  picket  on  the  14th,  and  marched 
to  a  new  camp  in  an  open  field,  south-east  of  Corinth,  near  a  spring 
of  fine,  cool,  clear  water.  Tents  sufficient  to  protect  the  men  were 
famished.  There  was  a  general  cleansing  of  clothes  and  persons, 
and  all  felt  better  and  refreshed  after  their  continued  duties,  hard 
ships  and  excitement.  Here  they  once  more  received  pay.  Lieuten 
ant  J.  Harvey  Brigham,  of  Company  B,  was  appointed  Adjutant,* 

*After  Lieutenant  Wnshburn  was  captured  at  Elk  Horn,  Lieutenant  J.  Har 
vey  Brigham  was  made  Adjutant  of  the  regiment,  and  continued  to  act  as  such 
until  the  re-organization,  and  was  then  regularly  appointed  as  such  and  com 
missioned  under  Act  of  Congress,  allowing  the  appointment  of  others  than  of 
line  officers.  At  the  beginning  of  the  war  this  office  was  filled  by  some  lieu 
tenant  appointed  from  the  line  officers.  Lieutenant  Brigham  was  second  lieu 
tenant  of  Company  B.  Adjutant  Brigham  lost  the  use  of  his  right  hand  from 
a  wound  received  at  the  battle  of  luka  (September  19th)  after  which  period 
Lieutenant  A.  W,  Currie,  Company  II,  was  made  Acting  Adjutant,  while  Lieu 
tenant  Brigham  was  on  detached  service  on  general  court-martial  in  Richmond, 
Va.,  but  still  holding  his  commission  as  Adjutant  until  he  resigned  (September 
21st,  1864)  in  consequence  of  disability.  After  this  no  one  was  adjutant  by 
commission,  but  only  by  appointment. 


THIRD    LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  171 

Lieutenant  J.  Hanna,  Company  I,  Regimental  Quartermaster,  and 
F.  Gallagher,  Commissary.  One  day  succeeded  another  full  of  ex 
citement  and  expectation  of  the  great  battle.  On  the  18th,  nearly 
the  whole  army  were  outside  of  the  fortifications  around  Corinth 
lying  in  line  of  battle  in  a  huge  semi-circle.  The  regiment  was  on 
the  right  of  nearly  the  whole  army.  Far  to  the  left  was  heard  the 
sharp  rattle  of  small-arms  and  the  sullen  roar  of  artillery,  betokening 
heavy  skirmishing,  perhaps  the  prelude  to  a  general  engagement. 
The  enemy  were  again  repulsed  with  considerable  loss.  The  next 
day  was  a  repetition  of  the  same  scenes  of  desultory  fighting  by  the 
skirmishers  and  out-posts.  Yet  amid  the  sound  of  spattering  rifle 
shots  and  an  occasional  roar  of  a  field-piece,  the  regiment  presented 
a  strange  appearance,  characteristic  of  the  reckless  indifference  of 
men  accustomed  to  danger.  There  were  groups  playing  poker, 
swearing  and  laughing  over  their  cards,  others  were  engaged  in  the 
interesting  game  of  "mumble  the  peg."  Some  eating  "hard-tack" 
and  "  salt  junk."  Others  reading  newspapers,  engaged  in  discus 
sions,  telling  jokes  and  yams  amid  uproarious  laughter,  or  lying  in 
lazy  attitudes  'neath  the  shade  of  the  trees.  There  was  suddenly 
the  quick,  imperative  command  to  "  fall  in,"  a  rush  and  scramble  for 
arms  and  equipments  amid  great  excitement,  showing  the  tension  to 
which  the  nerves  of  the  men  were  strung  beneath  all  their  apparent 
indifference.  They  were  only  ordered  to  return  to  camp. 

The  weather  now  became  stormy,  rain  falling  almost  incessantly, 
yet  orders  were  issued  to  cook  three  days'  rations  and  be  prepared 
to  move.  On  the  21st  the  army  was  once  more  on  the  march,  accom 
panied  by  trains  of  commissary  stores.  Proceeding  cautiously  east 
ward  we  halted  about  seven  miles  from  Corinth  on  the  Memphis  and 
Charleston  railroad.  Here  the  regiment  was  passed  by  Hardee's  Di 
vision,  composed  almost  entirely  of  Arkansas  volunteers,  a  hardy, 
rough-looking  body  of  men,  full  of  fun  and  life.  We  were  feeling 
the  enemy's  position,  with  the  evident  design  of  giving  battle.  Tho 
expedition  was  fruitless,  as  they  could  not  be  found.  The  anny 
commenced  moving  back  on  the  22d.  That  night  many  of  the 
troops,  batteries,  and  trains  remained  in  the  swamps,  the  roads 
through  them  being  impassable  in  the  black  darkness  of  a  cloudy 
night.  The  situation  was  by  no  means  an  agreeable  one.  Major 
Tunnard  reached  the  regiment  on  the  25th,  and  was  once  more 
warmly  welcomed.  Having  procured  a  discharge  from  the  service, 
he  bade  a  final  adieu  to  the  regiment  on  the  26th  of  May,  followed 
by  the  good  wishes  of  the  men  who  had  served  so  efficiently  under 
him. 


172  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

On  the  28th  the  trains  of  the  whole  army  were  in  motion  south 
ward.  The  army  made  a  feint  on  the  enemy's  position.  There  was 
some  heavy  skirmishing  and  artillery  fighting.  The  Third  Regiment 
was  not  engaged,  and  was  among  the  last  to  leave  Corinth.  The 
army  slowly  fell  back  along  high  ridges  covered  with  pine,  then 
through  swamps,  boggy  with  mire  and  almost  impassable.  The  men 
felt  gloomy,  sad,  and  dispirited  at  this  abandonment  of  their  strong 
hold.  Not  understanding  or  appreciating  the  consummate  skill  and 
strategy  of  General  Beauregard  in  thus  safely  retreating  in  face  of  a 
powerful  foe  without  losing  arms,  ammunition,  guns  or  stores.  They 
did  not  then  know  that  great  victories  could  be  gained  without 
fighting  tremendous  battles.  On  the  31st  the  regiment  reached 
Baldwin,  Miss.,  and  encamped  on  a  ridge  among  the  pines,  west  of 
the  N.  O.,  J.  and  G.  N.  railroad.  Here  the  troops  remained  until 
the  6th,  when  the  retrograde  movement  was  continued.  The  rail 
road  bridges  and  culverts  were  destroyed  in  the  rear.  The  enemy's 
cavalry  were  very  active  in  making  raids  on  the  road,  attempting  to 
destroy  the  track  in  front  of  our  trains.  But  the  splendid  cavalry 
of  Price's  Division  were  equally  energetic  in  foiling  their  attempts. 
Over  hills  and  through  gloomy  swamps  the  regiment  marched,  some 
times  knee  deep  in  mud. 


CHAPTER    XXII. 


TUPELO. 

ON  Sunday,  the  8th  of  June,  a  clear,  beautiful  Sabbath  day,  the 
regiment  reached  Tupelo  and  were  marched  about  two  miles  east  of 
this  place  and  an  eligible  camp  selected  on  a  hill  and  near  a  small 
spring.  The  country  here  was  rolling  land  covered  with  open  woods. 
Here  they  remained  encamped  without  incident  worthy  of  note  until 
the  16th,  when  the  members  of  the  regiment  taken  prisoners  at  Elk 
Horn  arrived.  They  were  greeted  and  welcomed  as  brothers  meet 
after  a  long  separation.  They  were  surrounded  by  their  comrades, 
all  eager  to  learn  something  of  life  in  Northern  prisons,  and  the 
treatment  of  prisoners,  overwhelming  them  with  questions.  Their 
statements  were  anything  but  flattering  to  our  foes,  and  in  some  par 
ticulars  horrible  in  their  details. 

General  Hebert  also  arrived  and  established  his  headquarters  on 
the  ridge  adjacent  to  the' one  occupied  by  the  regiment.  When  the 
re-organization  of  the  command  was  perfected  at  Corinth,  the  men 
were  promised  furloughs  for  sixty  days.  After  their  arrival  at 
Tupelo,  an  application  was  made  for  the  fulfilment  of  this  promise. 
It  was  refused,  and  when  the  fact  was  announced  to  the  regiment  on 
the  16th  of  June,  1862,  there  was  much  excitement  and  dissatisfac 
tion  in  camp.  After  long  months  of  severe  service,  enduring  untold 
hardships  and  trials,  fighting  several  battles  with  a  courage  and 
bravery  which  had  made  their  name  everywhere  distinguished,  the 
only  boon  asked,  the  only  favor  which  could  have  been  conferred 
on  them  as  a  recompense  for  their  deeds,  was  refused.  Now  they 
could  look  forward  only  to  a  life  in  the  army  until  the  termination 
of  the  struggle.  The  disappointment  was  most  bitterly  felt,  and  it 
is  not  surprising  that  it  found  expression  in  still  more  bitter  words. 
The  scarcity  of  water  rendered  it  necessary  to  dig  wells,  and  the  men 
went  to  work  with  their  customary  energy  at  this  new  occupation 


174  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

They  soon  had  deep  wells  dug,  neatly  planked  up  to  prevent  their 
caving  in,  and  water  was  found  in  abundance  and  very  good.  At 
this  period  camp  discipline  was  very  strict  and  daily  drills  very 
severe.  Beside  these  duties  there  were  heavy  details  for  the  purpose 
of  cutting  out  and  building  roads  through  the  swamps,  labor  which 
even  to  those  accustomed  to  it  is  not  considered  light.  Heavy  tim 
ber  was  first  cut,  then  carried  by  sheer  physical  strength  to  its  proper 
place,  as  a  foundation  over  swampy  ground ;  this  was  filled  in  with 
brush  and  dirt.  Such  work  was  performed  in  rnud  and  water  knee 
deep — mentioned  here  only  to  show  some  of  the  duties  of  a  vol 
unteer. 

On  the  20th  orders  were  read  assigning  General  Van  Dorn  to  the 
command  of  Eastern  Louisiana  and  Southern  Mississippi,  and  the 
Division  was  now  under  the  supreme  command  of  General  Price. 

On  the  20th  there  was  a  review  and  general  inspection,  the  occa 
sion  of  unfurling  a  beautiful  battle-flag  presented  to  the  regiment  by 
Governor  Jackson,  of  Missouri.  This  flag  was  made  of  the  very 
finest  material.  It  was  red  silk,  with  a  strip  of  yellow  silk  around 
the  edges.  In  the  upper  left  hand  corner  was  a  crescent  with  "  Third 
Louisiana  "  worked  in  it,  surrounded  by  thirteen  silvered  stars.  In 
the  centre  of  the  red  ground  was  a  scroll  in  blue,  with  the  words 
"  Oak  Hills,"  and  "Elk  Horn,"  inscribed  thereon,  indicating  that 
the  regiment  had  distinguished  themselves  on  those  battle  fields. 
This  banner  was  one  of  the  handsomest  in  the  army,  and,  coming 
from  such  a  distinguished  source,  was  greatly  admired  by  the  men. 
They  appreciated  highly  the  compliment  thus  paid  to  their  gallantry 
and  heroism.  On  the  26th  of  June  an  order  was  read  appointing 
the  regiment  as  sharp-shooters  for  the  brigade,  a  position  which 
would  place  them  in  front  in  every  battle,  another  tribute  to  their 
efficiency.  They  acknowledged  the  compliment,  but  did  not  much 
relish  the  situation. 

The  latter  part  of  June  was  clear  and  hot.  The  camp  was  un 
usually  quiet  until  the  arrival  of  the  news  from  Virginia,  which  was 
received  with  enthusiastic  cheers  by  the  troops  amid  much  excite 
ment.  The  official  confirmation  of  the  success  of  General  Lee  in 
defeating  McClellanV army,  was  the  occasion  of  firing  salutes  in  every 
brigade  of  General  Beauregard's  army.  As  the  guns  pealed  forth 
the  tidings  over  the  slumbering  hills,  the  army  grew  wild  with  ex 
citement  and  joy.  Everywhere  success  seemed  crowning  our  efforts. 
At  Vicksburg  the  enemy  in  vain  attempted  to  open  the  blockade  of 
the  Mississippi.  The  opposing  forces  were  confronting  each  other 
at  Chattanooga,  and  the  news  from  Northern  Mississippi  and  Ar- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  175 

kansas  encouraging.     It  seemed  as  if  the  day  of  success  was  once 
more  breaking,  after  the  gloom  of  a  long  night  of  disaster. 

Colonel  F.  C.  Armstrong  received  an  appointment  as  Brigadier- 
General  of  Cavalry  on  the  6th  of  July.  His  loss  to  the  regiment 
was  a  subject  of  general  regret,  although  the  men  were  glad  to  see 
their  favorite  commander  thus  elevated  to  a  position  for  which  he 
was  eminently  fitted  and  in  which  he  would  perform  efficient  service. 
In  taking  leave  of  the  regiment  he  issued  the  following  order : 


HEADQUARTERS  THIRD  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY ,  J 
General  Orders  )     Camp  near  Priceville,  Miss.,  July  6th,  1862.      C 
No.  7.          f 

Having  been  promoted  and  assigned  to  the  command  of  a  brigade 
of  cavalry,  the  undesigned,  with  feelings  of  regret,  relinquishes  the 
command  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry.  Well  tried  Veterans ! 
distinguished  not  only  for  their  daring  gallantry  on  the  battle-field, 
but  for  their  soldierly  and  military  bearing  on  all  occasions,  and  the 
alacrity  and  willingness  with  which  they  have  always  borne  the 
many  privations  and  hardships  they  have  had  to  undergo.  Fare 
well  !  fellow  soldiers !  and  remember  that  I  will  ever  feel  proud  that 
I  was  chosen  to  command  the  Veterans  of  Oak  Hills  and  Elk  Horn  1 
the  pride  of  the  Army  of  the  West,  the  gallant  Third  Louisiana. 
F.  C.  ARMSTRONG,  Brigadier- General. 

On  the  15th  of  July  about  sixty  privates  left  the  regiment,  being 
released  from  military  service  under  the  provisions  of  the  first  Con 
script  Law  of  the  Confederate  Congress.  This  was  another  serious 
blow  to  the  regiment,  as  they  were  deprived  of  the  services  of  a 
number  of  their  most  steady,  efficient  and  gallant  men.  About  this 
period  there  was  a  general  review  of  the  division  by  General  Price. 
The  old  veteran  looked  as  fine  and  pleasant  as  ever,  the  geniality  of 
his  character  shining  forth  in  every  lineament  of  his  pleasant  feat 
ures.  He  saluted  the  regiment  in  a  marked  manner  as  they  inarched 
by  him  with  firm  and  solid  tread.  A  large  number  of  ladies  were 
present  at  this  review,  much  to  the  astonishment,  as  well  as  pleasure, 
of  our  men.  They  had  not  seen  any  ladies  for  many  weeks,  and  had 
begun  to  imagine  that  their  existence  was  some  strange  phantasy  of 
the  brain,  or,  perhaps,  connected  with  some  strange  dream ;  or,  as 
one  remarked,  connected  with  their  existence  "  when  they  were  on 
earth  before." 

Reviews  in  July  seemed  the  order  of  the  day.    A  general  one  took 


176  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

place  on  the  24th,  at  which  were  present  Generals  Bragg,  Hardee, 
Price,  Lyttle,  Hebert,  Green,  Maury,  Phiffer,  J.  Perkins,  jr.,  and 
other  distinguished  personages. 

Troops  were  continually  departing  for  different  points,  until  only 
the  Army  of  the  West  were  left  near  Tupelo,  under  command  of 
General  Price,  who  had  charge  of  the  department,  comprising — 
North  Alabama,  West  Tennessee  and  Northern  Mississippi.  There 
was  a  fine  bathing-place  near  our  camp,  which  furnished  the  men 
with  a  great  amount  of  amusement.  One  member  of  the  regiment 
was  drummed  out  for  cowardice — the  execution  of  the  sentence 
being  witnessed  by  the  men  without  regret,  as  they  considered  the 
punishment  deserved. 

There  was  very  little  to  occasion  sport  while  in  this  camp,  and 
hence  they  seized  upon  every  little  incident  to  indulge  their  wit 
ticisms  and  good  humor. 

After  the  departure  of  Colonel  Armstrong  J.  B.  Gilmore  became 
Colonel  by  promotion,  S.  D.  Russell,  Lieutenant-Colonel,  and  J.  S. 
Richards,  of  Company  II,  Major.  Colonel  Gilmore  was  indefatig 
able—untiring  in  drilling  the  regiment.  He  usually  rode  on  these 
occasions  a  small  sorrel  poney,  which  was  very  lazy.  He  would  give 
an  order  for  some  manoeuvre,  and  then  "  cluck"  very  energetically 
to  his  pony,  using  hands  and  heels  in  his  endeavor  to  get  him  to 
the  proper  position  as  the  men  performed  their  evolutions.  Hence, 
after  these  drills,  you  could  hear  all  over  camp  many  men  shouting 
some  order,  followed  by  a  sharp  cluck  !  cluck !  cluck  !  as  they  imi 
tated  the  energetic  manner  of  Colonel  Gilmore.  This  pastime  never 
failed  to  elicit  shouts  of  laughter. 

On  the  29th  the  camp  near  Priceville  was  abandoned,  the  troops 
moving  four  miles  above  Tupelo  to  a  position  occupied  previously 
by  a  portion  of  General  Bragg's  troops.  From  this  camp  the  regi 
ment  moved  in  detachments  to  Saltillo,  Miss.,  on  the  railroad,  in 
close  proximity  to  a  spring,  where  General  Andrew  Jackson  once 
camped  with  his  troops  during  the  second  American  war.  As  usual, 
the  regiment  was  camped  in  an  open  field,  skirted,  and,  in  places, 
shaded  with  trees.  This  was  a  pleasant  camp-ground,  and  water 
abundant,  and  fine  for  all  purposes 

On  the  4th  of  August  orders  were  issued  to  be  ready,  at  any  mo 
ment,  to  move,  in  anticipation  of  the  enemy's  advance. 

The  brigade,  commanded  by  General  Hebert,  was  composed  en 
tirely  of  dismounted  Texans,  comprising  the  Third  and  Sixth 
Cavalry,  and  Whitfield's  Legion,  and  the  Third  Louisiana.  These 
Texans,  gallant,  brave,  daring  and  dashing  men,  were  devotedly 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  177 

attached  to  the  Third  Regiment  in  those  ties  which  always  bind 
brave  men  together. 

At  Saltillo  the  rations  were  very  scant  and  the  men  in  a  starving 
condition,  not  because  there  were  no  supplies  to  be  had,  but  be 
cause  they  had  failed  to  reach  the  Commissary-General.  The  Texans 
refused  to  do  further  duty  unless  properly  fed,  and  there  was  great 
dissatisfaction  in  the  Louisianian  Regiment.  Feed  and  clothe  a 
soldier  and  he  is  always  ready  for  anything.  These  things  so  neces 
sary  to  his  health  and  comfort  make  up  the  sum  of  his  existence. 
Deprive  him  of  them  and  he  is  discontented,  dissatisfied  and  pre 
pared  to  commit  any  kind  of  insubordination.  The  days  were 
unusually  hot  and  clear,  flies,  mosquitos  and  gnats  in  myriads,  which, 
added  to  hunger,  made  the  life  at  Saltillo  anything  but  agreeable. 
However,  provisions  soon  arrived,  removing  the  chief  cause  of  dis 
satisfaction. 

On  the  9th  General  Armstrong  visited  the  camp  and  was  most 
enthusiastically  welcomed.  It  seemed  to  rejoice  the  men  exceed 
ingly  to  once  more  see  his  familiar  features  and  learn  something  con 
cerning  his  numerous  adventures  as  a  cavalry  officer. 

Here  a  system  was  instituted  of  excusing  from  guard-duty  two 
men  of  the  detail  who  had  the  cleanest  guns.  The  arms  were  thus 
kept  in  splendid  order— burnished  like  a  new  silver  dollar — with 
out  dirt  enough  about  them  to  soil  a  clean  cambric  handkerchief. 
The  arms  of  the  guard  every  morning  thus  presented  a  splendid 
appearance.  • 

The  weather  during  the  whole  month  of  August  was  clear  and 
intensely  hot,  much  to  the  discomfiture  of  the  troops.  It  was  too 
warm  for  any  kind  of  sport  or  fun.  A  revival  occurred  here  among 
the  Missouri  troops,  and  preaching  was  a  nightly  occurrence.  The 
scene  at  one  of  these  gatherings  was  very  impressive.  A  huge 
shelter  protected  the  assembly  from  the  night  dews.  Rough  seats 
made  of  logs,  covered  the  space  beneath  this  shelter.  Stands,  on 
which  were  built  fires  from  pine-knots,  shed  u  lurid  light  over  the 
vast  concourse.  The  hymns  sung  would  rise  in  rich  cadences,  float 
ing  away  on  the  evening  air  in  solemn,  harmonious  strains,  followed 
by  an  earnest  prayer  and  an  impassioned,  eloquent  discourse.  It  was 
a  strange  spectacle  to  witness.  These  rough,  bronzed  soldiers,  in 
ured  to  danger  and  hardships,  making  bloodshed  the  chief  aim  of 
their  lives,  exposed  to  the  evil  influences  of  a  soldier's  dissipated 
and  reckless  existence,  thus  striving  to  seek  a  "  home  not  made  with 
hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens." 

At  Saltillo  the  "  Owls"  were  very  destructive,  especially  among 
8* 


178  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

the  Arkansians,  whose  camps  were  but  a  short  distance  from  the 
Louisianians.  The  usual  morning  greeting  was — "  Hillo  !  Arkansas, 
did  the  Owls  catch  any  of  yotfens  last  night.  We'ens  is  all  here." 
The  reply  generally  showed  that  some  one  had  disappeared.  Every 
soldier  knows  what  being  caught  by  the  "  Owls"  means ;  but  for 
the  information  of  the  ignorant  reader  we  state  that  this  was  a  term 

applied  to  desertion 

Peaches  were  very  abundant  here,  and  the  men  enjoyed  the  treat 
exceedingly,  becoming  perfect  gourmands  in  their  appetites  for  this 
fine  fruit.  One  day  a  mess,  composed  of  four  men,  determined  to 
have  what  soldiers  termed  a  ''square  meal."  They  purchased  a 
bushel  of  peaches,  which  were  duly  prepared  for  cooking.  After  a 
diligent  search,  they  procured  a  huge  oven.  Having  flour  and  lard 
they  next  made  a  crisp  crust,  with  which  the  pot  was  lined.  Into 
this  was  put  all  the  peaches,  overlaid  with  another  crust  of  dough, 
and  properly  baked.  In  due  course  of  time  a  fragrant,  really  deli 
cious  peach-cobler  was  ready  to  be  devoured.  Behold,  then,  these 
four  men  at  their  noon-day  meal,  with  meat,  bread  and  a  bushel- 
cobler.  It  was  devoured  at  a  single  sitting ;  but  the  gourmands 
were  unfit  for  duty  the  remainder  of  the  day.  Verily,  soldiers  have 
delicate  appetites. 

THAT  OWL. 

On  the  ever-memorable  retreat  from  Corinth  in  1862,  we  camped 
close  by  a  mill  not  far  from  Baldwin,  after  a  long  and  tedious  day's 
march.  Night  set  in,  and  with  it  a  slight  drizzling  rain.  The  camp 
was  gloomy  indeed.  Our  poor  fellows  were  tired  after  the  day's 
toil,  and,  of  course,  wished  a  dry  spot  to  lay  their  weary  heads  on. 
The  Colonel  had  his  tent  stretched  on  the  banks  of  the  creek,  and 
those  who  had  no  tents  to  shelter  them  from  the  inclemency  of  the 
night  crowded  into  the  Colonel's  until  it  was  u  filled  up."  It  was 
not  many  hours  ere  the  whole  camp  was  as  still  as  death,  save  the 
solitary  tramp  of  the  sentinel  as  he  marched  back  and  forth  on  his 
beaten  path,  or  changed  the  tiresome  musket  from  shoulder  to 
shoulder.  About  the  "  wee  sma'  "  hours  of  the  morning  one  of  those 
hoary-headed  owls  settled  himself  on  a  tree  opposite  the  Colonel's 
tent,  across  the  creek,  and  poured  forth  one  of  his  most  melodious 
midnight  hymns.  Any  kind  of  noise  was,  of  course,  prohibited  in 
camp  after  tattoo. 

The  music  of  the  big-eyed  warbler  disturbed  the  Colonel  in  his 
dreams,  and,  about  half  wake,  he  shouted :  "  Stop  that  noise,  sir." 

The  owl,  not  understanding  such  a  peremptory  order,  sung  forth 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  179 

one  of  his  sweetest  refrains.  Before  the  last  note  had  died  away, 
the  Colonel,  in  a  stentorian  voice  that  aroused  everybody  from  his 
slumbers,  shouted,  "  Stop  that  noise  instantly,  sir." 

Not  being  afraid  of  military  law  at  midnight,  the  owl  put  forth 
his  protest  against  the  order  of  the  Colonel  in  a  higher  key.  By 
this  time  the  Colonel  was  excited,  and,  in  his  loudest  tones,  called 
for  the  guard.  The  guard  came  rushing  toward  the  tent.  He  was 
sitting  straight  up  in  bed.  The  guard  rushed  in  almost  out  of 
breath — "  What's  the  matter,  Colonel."  "  Arrest  that  man  imme 
diately  who  is  making  that  noise."  The  guard  looked  astounded. 
One  of  the  boys  who  was  sleeping  in  the  tent  with  the  Colonel 
understood  the  whole  matter  and  quietly  said :  "  Colonel,  it  is  no 
thing  but  an  owl." 

The  Colonel  dismissed  the  guard,  laid  down  and  went  to  sleep. 
From  that  day  to  this  he  never  said  "  owl/'  If  any  one  is  spoiling 
for  a  fight,  let  him  go  to  Shreveport ;  go  to  the  Colonel's  store  and 
say  owl  just  once. 


CHAPTER   XXIII. 

THE   ADVANCE. 

ON  the  last  day  of  August  there  was  a  general  review  and  muster 
of  the  troops.  Before  it  was  finished,  orders  were  received  to  pre 
pare  to  march  on  the  enemy.  Six  tent  flies  and  one  wagon  allotted 
to  every  hundred  men.  There  was  the  usual  bustle  and  confusion 
attendant  on  breaking  up  camp.  Soon  the  army  was  in  motion 
northward  once  more,  and  reached  Baldwin,  Miss.,  that  night. 
This  place,  which  we  had  left  only  a  few  days  previously,  had  been 
visited  by  the  enemy ;  the  simoon-blast  of  war  had  swept  over  it 
and  left  only  ruins  behind. 

THE  COLONEL'S  ARTILLERY. 

About  two  weeks  previous  to  the  battle  of  luka  we  encamped 
near  Baldwin.  Our  regiment,  with  a  section  of  artillery,  was  ordered 
on  picket  duty,  about  ten  miles  north  of  Baldwin,  on  the  railroad. 
The  regiment  was  under  the  command  of  Colonel  Gilmore.  The 
Colonel,  on  our  arrival,  ordered  the  regiment  to  camp  in  an  old  corn 
field,  and  also  stationed  the  section  of  artillery  in  the  same  corn 
field.  A  little  log-cabin  across  the  road  stood  directly  in  range  of 
these  two  guns.  This  little  cabin  was  occupied  by  a  widow  lady 
and  her  three  children.  The  widow  was  a  beauty,  and  many  of 
the  regiment  were  lovers  of  the  beautiful,  and,  of  course,  would 
hover  around  the  cabin.  Among  those  admirers  was  the  Colonel. 
The  fact  was,  the  Colonel  would  rather  have  his  right  arm  torn  off 
at  the  shoulder  than  that  any  lady  should  suffer  the  least  injury  from 
any  order  of  his.  To  prove  this,  the  Colonel  (the  second  or  third 
morning  after  we  arrived)  went  over  to  the  cabin,  when  he  explained 
the  object  of  his  mission  in  this  wise :  "  Good  morning,  madam." 
'  Good  morning,  sir."  "  Madam,  I  came  over  this  morning  to  state 
to  you  that  I  am  here  with  my  regiment  on  picket  duty ;  and  also, 
madam,  that  my  artillery  is  bearing  directly  on  your  front,  and,  if 
the  enemy  should  come,  I  shall  certainly  bombard  it."  "Law  me, 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  181 

Colonel,  is  there  so  much  danger  ?"  "  There  is,  madam.  My  bom 
bardments  are  terrible."  "  Sakes  alive  !  I  will  leave  right  away." 
It  is  needless  to  state  that  the  Colonel  left. 

Our  advance-guard  had  a  sharp  skirmish  with  the  enemy  the  day 
of  our  arrival  at  Baldwin,  compelling  them  to  fall  back. 

The  next  morning  the  regiment  moved  three  miles  up  the  road, 
and  encamped  with  one  section  of  King's  battery.  The  object  of 
this  move  was  to  protect  workmen  engaged  in  repairing  the  de 
stroyed  portions  of  the  railroad  previous  to  a  general  advance  by 
the  whole  army.  The  men  labored  zealously  at  the  new  task  as 
signed  them.  It  seemed  as  if  they  were  to  learn  every  rough  branch 
of  industry  while  in  the  army.  Dirt,  roads,  graves  and  welldig- 
ging,  and  now  railroad  building.  At  such  labor  they  did  not  ap 
preciate  the  old  aphorism,  "  Variety  is  the  spice  of  life/' 

On  the  6th  of  September  the  regiment  moved  three  miles  farther 
up,  camping  in  an  open  field  near  the  railroad,  five  miles  from 
Boonville.  The  enemy  were  but  a  short  distance  in  front.  The 
First  Brigade  arrived  to  strengthen  our  position.  The  enemy  were 
within  three-quarters  of  a  mile,  but  the  men  were  cool  and  camp 
very  quiet.  The  weather  still  continued  very  warm,  the  roads 
ankle-deep  with  dust.  The  nights  were  beautiful,  the  soft  moon 
light  bathing  the  earth  with  its  flood  of  silvery  rays.  Yet  the  men 
failed  to  appreciate  its  loveliness,  or  feel  the  tender  influences  of  its 
witching  spell. 

On  the  10th,  the  regiment  broke  up  camp  and  moved  back  to 
Baldwin,  carrying  once  more  their  knapsacks.  The  the  next  day 
the  camp  was  rife  with  rumors  of  an  active  move  against  the  enemy. 
The  regiment  took  up  the  line  of  march  very  early,  leading  Hebert's 
brigade,  which  was  in  front  of  the  army.  After  a  hot,  dusty  march 
of  fifteen  miles,  encamped  in  a  valley  watered  by  a  babbling  stream 
of  clear,  cool  water.  The  army  at  this  time  were  marching  in  an 
north-easterly  direction  from  Baldwin.  On  the  12th,  the  army  reached 
Bay  Spring  Mills  ;  General  Armstrong  was  in  advance  with  his  dash 
ing  brigade  of  cavalry,  and  in  close  pursuit  of  the  retreating  enemy. 
On  the  13th,  the  regiment  was  in  line  at  3  A.  M.,  and  soon  pushing 
rapidly  forward,  marching  steadily  until  5  p.  M.  The  trains  did  not 
roach  the  regiment  until  very  late  at  night.  The  tired  and  hungry 
soldiers  had  awaited  their  coming  ere  thinking  of  sleep.  Having 
partaken  of  their  meal  of  beef  and  corn-bread,  they  thought  to  rest- 
Vain  delusion!  Scarcely  had  they  thrown  themselves  upon  the 
ground,  when,  at  10  J-  o'clock  at  night,  the  drum  beat  the  call  to 
"  fall  in."  Knapsacks  were  left  behind,  and  another  night-march 


182  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

commenced,  with  the  expectation  of  soon- meeting  the  foe.  The  men 
were  in  good  spirits,  notwithstanding  tired  limbs  and  hunger, 

Amid  the  darkness  of  the  night  and  the  sombre  shadows  of  the 
forest  trees,  the  army  moved  forward  in  the  direction  of  luka,  where 
it  was  known  the  enemy  were  in  force.  When  within  one  and  a  half 
miles  of  town,  the  anny  was  formed  in  column  of  brigades,  and  the 
Louisiana  regiment  sent  forward.  General  Hebert  rode  up  to  Colonel 
Gilmore  and  said  :  "  Great  things  are  expected  of  you  to-day." 

About  sunrise,  as  the  army  approached  this  place,  the  news  came 
that  the  foe  had  evacuated  the  town  without  a  struggle,  and  General 
Armstrong  was  in  possession.  The  men  marched  eagerly  and  rapidly 
onward,  reaching  luka  about  noon.  The  army  captured  about 
$200,000  worth  of  stores,  consisting  of  arms,  ammunition,  and  com 
missary  supplies  of  every  description,  including  such  luxuries  as 
coifee,  tea,  sugar,  condensed  milk,  cheese,  mackerel,  canned  fruit  and 
preserves,  brandy,  lager  beer,  whisky,  Claret  and  Catawba  wines, 
etc.  The  ragged  and  half-starved  soldiers  feasted  on  "  good  things  " 
for  once,  and  had  more  than  a  "  square  meal."  Among  other  things, 
the  regiment  found  some  hand-cars,  which  the  men  would  push  up 
the  road,  an  up-hill  grade,  and,  getting  on  them,  come  down  at 
break-neck  speed.  luka  is  situated  in  a  valley,  on  the  Memphis 
and  Charleston  Railroad,  and  is  quite  a  pretty  place.  It  is  noted  for 
its  fine  mineral  springs,  and  was  a  fashionable  resort  previous  to  the 
war.  The  people  received  the  Southern  troops  with  every  demon 
stration  of  joy ;  the  ladies  especially,  of  which  there  were  large 
numbers  residing  here,  and  handsome  ones  at  that. 

The  soldiers  feasted,  frolicked  and  were  in  high  glee  and  spirits 
at  the  sudden  change  in  their  condition.  On  the  15th  they  were  on 
picket  on  the  Byrneville  road  north  of  luka.  On  the  next  day  the 
brigade  was  in  line  of  battle  on  the  Baldwin  road  south  of  luka, 
the  first  brigade  occupying  the  position  of  the  previous  day.  Ru 
mors  prevailed  that  the  enemy  had  received  re-enforcements  and  were 
advancing  to  give  battle.  The  regiment  continued  in  line  of  battle 
until  the  19th,  when  they  returned  to  camp,  to  remain  only  a  short 
time,  being  ordered  out  on  the  Bymeville  road  once  more.  While 
on  this  road,  Sept.  19th,  news  arrived  that  the  enemy,  under  com 
mand  of  General  Rosecrans,  was  advancing  on  the  Baldwin  road. 
General  Hebert  received  orders  to  proceed  with  his  brigade  at  a 
double-quick  to  meet  them.  The  command,  at  almost  a  full  run  for 
nearly  three  miles,  hastened  forward.  Over  the  railroad,  through 
luka,  and  out  on  the  Baldwin  or  Bay  Springs  road  ;  when  about  a 
mile  from  luka,  the  brigade  was  formed  into  line  of  battle.  Imme- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  183 

diately  in  their  front  was  a  valley  ;  in  fact,  the  whole  country  was  a 
succession  of  valleys  and  hills  of  irregular  formation,  covered  by  a 
dense  undergrowth.  In  a  few  moments  the  battle  opened.  Although 
greatly  outnumbered,  this  brigade  steadily  drove  back  the  enemy's 
line,  and,  gaining  sight  of  a  nine-gun  battery  from  Cincinnati,  O., 
charged  it  with  desperate  fury,  notwithstanding  it  poured  into  their 
ranks  a  most  destructive  fire,  the  guns  being  heavily  loaded  with 
buck-shot.  The  fighting  was  of  the  most  desperate  character  on 
both  sides,  the  Confederates  being  opposed  by  the  flower  of  Rose- 
crans's  army,  the  early  volunteers  from  the  West,  men  accustomed  to 
the  use  of  arms,  and  of  undoubted  courage.  For  the  third  time 
during  the  war  the  Louisianians  met  the  Fifth  Iowa  regiment,  a  stal 
wart  body  of  men — heavy  infantry.  They  were  nearly  cut  to  pieces 
in  this  battle.  At  times  both  lines  would  stand  and  pour  destruc 
tive  volleys  into  each  other's  ranks ;  then  the  Confederates  would 
rush  forward,  with  tremendous  yells,  invariably  driving  back  the  foe 
in  their  impetuous  charge.  The  fight  was  mostly  with  small-arms. 
The  battle  continued  until  after  dark,  an  incessant,  prolonged  roar 
of  musketry.  The  captured  guns  were  seized  and  run  to  the  rear. 
The  battle  commenced  a  little  after  4  o'clock  r.  M.,  and  the  stubborn 
ness  with  which  the  Third  Louisiana  fought,  is  proven  by  the  fact 
that,  in  less  than  three  hours,  out  of  two  hundred  and  thirty-eight 
men  who  went  into  the  fight,  one  hundred  and  fifteen  were  killed 
and  wounded.  Darkness  put  an  end  to  the  battle,  and  the  men  laid 
down  on  their  arms  in  the  full  expectation  of  renewing  it  early  in 
the  morning.  As  the  sable  mantle  of  night  fell  upon  the  field  of 
strife,  thickly  strewn  with  the  dead,  dying,  and  wounded  of  friend 
and  foe,  the  First  brigade  arrived,  with  loud  cheers.  The  loss  in 
officers  by  the  regiment  was  fearful.  General  Lyttle  was  killed, 
Colonel  Whitfield  wounded.  Among  the  killed  and  wounded  of 
the  regiment  were  Colonel  Gilmore,  Adjutant  Brigham,  Captains 
Gentles,  Kinney  and  Pierson,  Lieutenants  Irwin,  Johnson,  Trichel, 
Renwick,  Hedrick  and  Ramora ;  prisoners,  Lieutenants  Babin  and 
Washburne.  The  principal  part  of  the  fighting  was  done  by  the 
Second  brigade  of  Lyttle's  division  of  Price's  army,  and  General 
Hebert  received  merited  praise  for  the  masterly  skill  and  gallant 
manner  in  which  he  led  his  brigade  into  action.  It  is  unnecessary 
to  state  that  the  Louisiana  regiment  fully  sustained  its  blood-earned 
reputation  ;  and  this  was  by  far  the  hardest-fought  battle  they  had 
yet  participated  in,  and  the  number  of  killed  and  wounded  fully 
attest  the  truth  of  the  statement,  and  the  part  they  took  in  the  affair. 
The  astonishment  of  the  men  was  indescribable  when,  early  the 


184  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

morning  after  the  battle,  orders  were  received  to  evacuate  the  place. 
Soon  the  long  line  of  infantry  was  filing  through  the  streets  of  luka, 
leaving  the  dead  and  wounded  in  the  hands  of  the  enemy.  We 
carried  off  all  our  trains  and  artillery,  including  the  greater  portion 
of  the  captured  stores  of  luka.  The  trains  had  all  been  prepared 
to  leave  previous  to  the  battle.  The  night  after  the-  desperate 
struggle,  the  cars  were  heard  all  night  bringing  up  re-enforcements, 
and  probably  General  Price  learned  that  the  enemy  were  too  strong 
to  be  successfully  encountered. 

The  following  interesting  and  additional  account  of  the  battle  is 
from  the  pen  of  a  member  of  the  regiment : 

"  After  General  Herbert  made  disposition  of  his  brigade  for  battle, 
the  Third  Louisiana  being  on  the  extreme  left  of  the  line,  Colonel 
Gilmore  ordered  forward  as  skirmishers  the  left  wing  of  his  regiment. 
Company  F,  being  on  the  right,  came  in  contact  with  the  enemy, 
and  fired  the  first  gun  at  luka.  This  little  skirmish  lasted  about 
fifteen  minutes,  the  enemy  losing  four  or  five  men  killed.  I  must 
state  a  circumstance  that  occurred  during  the  affair.  Two  of  the 
enemy  took  shelter  behind  a  large  tree  directly  in  front  of  Company 
F.  The  tree,  however,  was  not  large  enough  to  protect  the  two,  one 
of  whom  was  instantly  killed  by  private  Hudson ;  the  other  begged 
for  his  life  most  piteously,  which  would  undoubtedly  have  been 
granted  him  had  he  relied  on  the  word  of  a  rebel.  He  was  ordered 
several  times  to  come  to  the  company  and  his  life  should  be  spared, 
but  he  was  afraid  to  expose  his  person.  During  the  conversation 
between  him  and  the  captain,  private  J.  Jus,  it  seems,  became  rather 
restless,  left  his  position  in  the  line,  and  slipped  around  until  he  came 
in  view  of  the  Yankee,  then  raised  his  gun  and  shot  him  through 
the  head,  at  the  same  time  remarking,  "  Damned  if  I  don't  fetch 
him."  The  Federal  proved  to  be  a  lieutenant.  The  skirmishers 
were  soon  after  recalled,  and  had  scarcely  taken  their  position  in  the 
regiment  when  we  heard  the  enemy's  order  to  advance,  in  loud  tones, 
"Forward — guide  centre,  march!"  Hardly  had  these  words  died 
away,  when  the  same  command,  loud  and  clear,  came  ringing  on  our 
ears  from  our  commanding  officer.  Colonel  Gilmore  immediately  or 
dered  forward  Company  K,  Captain  Gentles,  as  skirmishers.  This 
company  rapidly  threw  themselves  in  front  of  the  regiment,  and  ad 
vanced  double-quick  up  the  hill,  followed  closely  by  the  regiment. 
Directly  in  our  front  was  one  of  those  long,  sloping  hills  peculiar  to 
the  country  around  luka.  This  hill-side  was  covered  with  large 
trees,  with  very  little  underbrush.  The  enemy's  line  soon  appeared, 
and  were  immediately  warmly  received  by  the  skirmishers,  who 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  185 

nobly  held  their  ground  until  the  regiment  came  to  their  assistance. 
The  fire  immediately  opened  from  both  lines  like  a  sudden  clap  of 
thunder,  and  continued  without  abatement  for  over  two  hours.  At 
the  commencement  of  the  firing  our  boys  dropped  down  on  their 
knees,  the  best  thing  they  could  have  done,  as  the  greatest  portion 
of  the  enemy's  fire  flew  harmlessly  over  their  heads,  while  their  fire 
had  telling  effect  on  the  enemy.  The  firing  was  fearful— the  smoke 
enveloped  both  lines,  so  that  they  became  invisible  to  each  other. 
The  lines  could  be  distinguished  only  by  the  flash  of  the  guns.  The 
evening  was  one  of  those  damp,  dull,  cloudy  ones,  which  caused  the 
smoke  to  settle  down  about  as  high  as  a  man's  head.  This  terrible 
fire  continued  about  half  an  hour,  when  the  enemy  were  ordered  to 
charge  down  the  hill,  but  were  so  warmly  received  that  they  stag 
gered.  Instantly  our  boys  received  the  order  to  charge,  and,  with 
their  old  battle-yell,  they  rushed  upon  the  foe  and  drove  them  from 
the  hill.  On  the  hill  the  regiment  suffered.  A  new  line  of  the  enemy 
opened  fire  on  them.  One  of  our  regiments  in  our  rear,  by  some 
mistake,  threw  their  missiles  of  death  in  among  us ;  this,  indeed, 
was  a  terrible  moment. 

Major  Russell  rode  to  this  regiment  and  stated  that  they  were 
firing  on  their  friends.  About  this  time  the  Colonel's  horse  was  shot 
under  him,  and  he  was  wounded  in  the  shoulder.  The  Colonel,  now 
on  foot,  ordered  a  charge  down  the  hill,  and  led  it  in  person.  Here 
the  fighting  was  desperate ;  a  number  of  our  men  were  wounded, 
and  a  large  number  killed. 

Night  quickly  set  in,  the  flashes  of  the  opposing  guns  almost  met, 
prisoners  were  taken  and  retaken,  no  one  could  distinguish  friend 
from  foe,  the  leaden  hail  flew  in  every  direction.  Still  our  boys 
pressed  on.  Our  Colonel  was  wounded;  also  Adjutant  J.  Harvey 
Brigham,  and  his  horse  killed.  Major  Russell  came  near  losing  his 
life  by  giving  orders  to  a  company  of  the  enemy,  mistaking  them  for 
one  of  our  own.  Sergeant  White  captured  the  enemy's  flag ;  scarcely 
had  he  done  so,  when  he  was  captured,  was  again  re-captured,  and 
finally  captured.  Our  regiment  was  finally  relieved  by  a  Missouri 
brigade.  We  then  marched  back  to  where  the  battle  first  began, 
and  slept  on  that  bloody  field  that  night.  The  Louisiana  regiment 
never  fought  better,  was  well  and  easily  handled,  and  were  justly 
proud  of  the  work  so  heroically  performed  in  one  of  the  hardest- 
fought  battles  of  the  war. 

Dr.  Luke  P.  Blackburn,  aid  to  General  Price,  who  was  with  him 
at  luka,  made  the  following  statement : 

"  General  Price  was  thrice  ordered  by  General  Bragg  to  move  his 


186  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

army  across  the  Tennessee  Eiver  at  Eastport  or  luka.  On  Thursday 
morning,  the  llth,  he  moved  his  army  of  less  than  14,000  men  from 
Guntown  toward  luka.  By  rapid  and  forced  marches  he  arrived 
within  three  miles  of  luka  at  daylight  on  Sunday  morning.  There 
he  was  informed  by  a  courier  from  General  Armstrong's  command, 
whose  cavalry  had  attacked  the  enemy  on  Saturday,  that  re-enforce 
ments  were  being  sent  from  Burnsville.  The  men,  being  very  much 
fatigued,  were  ordered  to  rest  and  sleep  in  line  thirty  minutes.  Gen 
eral  Price  knowing  that  Captain  Saunders,  with  his  company  of  one 
hundred  and  twenty  men,  had  possession  of  the  road  between  luka 
and  Burnsville,  and  having  implicit  confidence  in  that  officer,  he 
had  no  fear  of  re-enforcements  from  Corinth  until  he  should  have 
captured  the  forces  at  Burnsville  and  luka.  The  column  was  put  in 
motion ;  on  reaching  the  edge  of  the  town  he  was  astonished  to 
learn  that  the  enemy,  2,000  strong,  with  2,000  negroes,  and  a  large 
train,  had  fled  at  1  o'clock  the  night  previous.  He  took  possession 
of  the  place.  The  enemy  came  up  again  on  Monday  in  small  force, 
but  soon  retreated. 

"  Colonel  Wirt  Adams  and  Hieman's  cavalry  captured  and  burned 
a  train  of  cars  five  miles  from  luka.  There  was  no  farther  demon 
stration  until  Friday,  when  Colonel  Ord  sent  a  flag  demanding  the 
unconditional  surrender  of  General  Price's  army,  stating  that  the 
army  of  General  Lee  had  been  destroyed  in  Virginia,  Longstreet  and 
Hill,  with  their  entire  divisions,  captured,  that  the  war  was  now 
virtually  closed,  and,  as  he  wished  to  prevent  the  useless  shedding 
of  blood,  he  demanded  an  unconditional  surrender.  That  he  (Gen 
eral  Price)  was  completely  surrounded  by  an  overwhelming  force, 
and  could  not  escape. 

"  General  Price  replied  that  whenever  the  independence  of  the 
Southern  Confederacy  was  acknowledged,  her  rights  respected,  and 
the  Vandal  hordes  of  the  North  were  driven  from  her  soil,  that  then, 
and  then  only,  would  he  and  his  army  be  willing  to  lay  down  their 
arms. 

"  General  Price,  in  obedience  to  orders  from  General  Van  Dorn, 
and  being  almost  destitute  of  forage,  unable  to  cross  the  Tennessee 
River,  prevented  from  passing  down  toward  Corinth  by  the  unfav 
orable  condition  of  the  country,  the  enemy  having  possession  of 
Yellow  Creek,  determined  to  fall  back  to  Baldwin  and  there  unite 
with  General  Van  Dorn. 

"  The  order  to  fall  back  was  issued  Friday  morning,  at  9  o'clock, 
when  no  one  dreamed  of  an  attack.  On  Friday  evening,  at  2  o'clock, 
the  enemy,  in  line  of  battle,  approached  our  outpost.  Heavy  skir- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  187 

mishing  ensued.  At  3  o'clock  General  Price  ordered  up  the  Fourth 
Brigade.  When  they  reached  their  position,  they  found  the  enemy 
in  line  of  battle,  holding  a  good  position  on  a  hill.  The  order  was 
given  to  charge  them,  which  charge  drove  the  enemy  back  two  hun 
dred  yards,  into  a  ditch  formed  by  the  road  from  Fulton  to  Eastport, 
and  directly  under  their  cannon,  which  were  masked.  General  Price 
had  now  reached  the  field.  The  firing  had  almost  ceased.  General 
Hebert  and  Colonel  Martin,  commanding  brigade,  with  Whitfield's 
Legion,  being  all  the  force  in  line.  General  Price  ordered  up  Gregg's 
and  Green's  Brigades,  to  form  on  the  left,  charge  the  enemy,  and 
press  them  down  on  General  Maury's  Division,  he  being  on  the  right. 
Before  the  arrival  of  their  brigades,  General  Price  ascertained  that 
the  enemy  were  lying  in  the  road  sheltered  from  our  artillery.  They 
were  firing  but  one  gun,  and  that  on  our  right.  The  gallant  and  la 
mented  General  Lyttle  suggested  that,  as  they  seemed  to  have  but  one 
gun  in  position,  if  the  line  would  move  forward  the  battle  would 
soon  be  won.  The  order  was  given ;  our  men  emerged  from  the  un 
derbrush  in  line.  They  were  then  met  by  as  terrific  a  fire  from 
masked  batteries  and  concealed  musketry  as  was  ever  encountered. 
But  the  invincible  Third  Louisiana,  Third  Tennessee,  and  Thirty- 
seventh  Alabama  stood  like  statuary.  When  the  order  to  charge 
was  given,  they  rushed  headlong  through  this  sheet  of  fire  and  lead, 
and  drove  the  enemy  from  their  guns,  Whitfield's  Legion  pressing 
on  the  right ;  the  enemy  would  resist  and  fall  back,  until  they  were 
driven  half  a  mile,  losing  nine  guns. 

"  It  was  now  dark.  Generals  Green  and  Gregg  arrived,  but  too 
late  to  enter  the  fight.  One  hour  of  daylight,  and  the  entire  Yankee 
Division  would  have  been  captured.  We  held  the  field  all  night, 
brought  in  the  wounded,  and  evacuated  the  place  in  accordance  with 
the  order  issued  in  the  morning.  Our  loss  in  killed,  wounded,  and 
missing,  482.  That  of  the  enemy,  over  800.  General  Price  brought 
off  his  entire  train  and  captured  stores.  General  Maury  covered  the 
retreat.  General  Lyttle  fell  while  conversing  with  General  Price." 

INCIDENTS. — GETTING   THE    TRAINS    IN   MOTION. 

As  the  enemy  held  the  Baldwin  road,  the  retreat  was  conducted  on 
a  road  east  of  it,  known  as  the  Fulton  road.  There  was  some  con 
fusion  in  starting.  General  Price  came  riding  up  among  the  team 
sters  furious  with  anger.  He  was  dressed  in  a  many-colored  shirt, 
well  known  by  every  soldier  in  the  army  as  the  dress  he  assumed 
when  there  was  work  to  be  done.  A  slouched  hat  covered  his  head, 
and  a  sabre  was  buckled  around  his  portly  person.  We  never  re- 


188  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

member  to  have  heard  General  Price  swear,  only  on  this  occasion, 
and  he  was  not  choice  in  his  language  at  this  time.  He  ordered  the 
teamsters  to  drive  on,  adding,  "If  one  of  you  stops,  I'll  hang  you,  by 
G — el."  The  trains  went  out  of  luka  at  a  full  run,  the  teams  being 
urged  to  their  utmost  speed.  When  the  loads  became  too  heavy, 
clothing,  tents,  blankets,  and  bundles  were  thrown  out  on  the  road 
side.  If  a  wagon  broke  down,  the  mules  were  unhitched  and  a  torch 
applied  to  the  useless  vehicle.  There  was  no  time  to  stop  or  think 
of  saving  the  contents  of  these  elisabled  wagons. 

GENERAL    S.    PRICE. 

This  incident  of  General  Price  was  no  true  index  to  his  character. 
An  incident  that  occurred  at  Elk  Horn  was  more  indicative  of  his 
real  disposition.  When  the  retreat  commenced,  the  Author,  being 
sick,  obtained  a  seat  on  the  caisson  of  a  battery.  Immediately  in 
the  rear  of  this  battery  was  General  Price  and  staif,  with  a  portion 
of  General  McCulloch's  staff.  As  the  retreating  column  passed 
along  the  road,  it  overtook  a  soldier  badly  wounded  in  the  leg,  who 
was  limping  along,  regardless  of  his  excruciating  agony,  in  his  en 
deavors  to  escape  the  foe.  He  was  observed  by  General  Price,  who 
halted  the  battery,  and  thus  addressed  the  man:  "What  is  the 
matter,  my  good  fellow  ?"  "  I  am  shot  in  the  leg,  General,"  was  the 
reply.  "  Here,  my  man,  get  up  on  one  of  these  guns.  I'll  lose  every 
piece  of  artillery  in  the  army  but  what  I  save  my  men."  It  was  a 
noble  action,  showing  General  Price's  true  character,  his  love  for  the 
men  of  his  army,  and  attention  to  their  wants  and  comfort.  His 
fatherly  kindness  and  almost  womanly  tenderness  of  heart,  evinced 
in  just  such  incidents,  were  the  foundation  of  the  love  which  his 
soldiers  felt  for  him. 

THE  PROXIMITY  OF  THE  FORCES. 

So  close  were  the  lines  to  each  other  at  the  termination  of  the 
battle,  that  the  opposing  forces  unknowingly  walked  into  each 
other's  lines  and  were  forcibly  seized  and  taken  prisoners,  in  many 
instances  resulting  in  hair-breadth  escape,  with  the  loss  only  of  arms. 

THE   LOSS   OF   THE   FLAG. 

In  the  battle  of  luka,  Drum-major  Patterson  carried  the  colors  of 
the  regiment.  During  the  progress  of  the  battle  he  advanced  in 
front  of  the  regiment  too  far,  discovering  which,  he  began  to  fall 
back  to  his  position  in  the  line.  The  movement  was  observed  by 
Lieutenant  U.  Babin,  of  Company  A,  who  imagined  R.  Patterson 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  189 

was  retreating  with  the  colors.  Rushing  forward,  the  Lieutenant 
seized  the  colors,  shouting,  "  Follow  me,  boys  !*'  and  ran  rashly  into 
the  midst  of  the  enemy's  line.  He  was  captured,  with  the  colors,  by 
the  foe.  It  was  one  of  those  deeds  of  reckless  bravery  and  rash 
daring  which  men  often  commit  in  the  excitement  of  battle.  No 
one  ever  questioned  the  drum-major's  bravery,  for  he  had  exhibited 
already  a  strength  of  nerve  beyond  questioning.  Lieutenant  Babin 
exhibited  a  reckless  disregard  to  danger,  worthy  a  better  fate  than 
that  which  befell  him.  A  story  was  told  about  this  flag  worthy  of 
note.  After  its  capture,  an  officer  of  the  Federals  gave  it  to  an  or 
derly,  with  instructions  to  convey  it  to  General  Rosecrans's  headquar 
ters.  While  attempting  to  execute  this  mission  he  was  killed;  and 
the  next  morning  these  beautiful  colors  were  found  on  the  field  of 
battle,  amid  the  dead  and  wounded,  beside  the  cold  and  silent  form 
of  the  Federal  soldier.  The  regiment  felt  bitterly  the  loss  of  their 
flag,  as  only  brave  men  can  feel  such  a  misfortune. 


CHATTER  XXIV. 

THE   RETREAT. 

ON  the  20th  of  September,  the  army  retreated  twenty-seven  miles, 
closely  pursued  by  the  Federals.  In  the  early  part  of  the  day  our 
forces  in  the  rear  were  much  harassed  by  the  enemy's  cavalry,  but  a 
well  planned  and  executed  ambush  at  the  end  of  a  lane,  resulting 
in  fearful  slaughter,  deterred  them  from  pressing  the  pursuit,  and 
by  night  it  had  ceased  altogether.  Early  the  next  morning  the  army 
was  back  at  Bay  Springs.  The  bridge  across  the  stream  gave  way 
as  the  last  of  the  train  was  crossing  it,  causing  the  loss  of  one  wagon, 
which  was  precipitated  on  the  rocks  below.  The  damage,  however, 
was  soon  repaired.  The  retreat  continued  on  the  21st  and  22d,  and 
on  the  23d  the  regiment  reached  its  old  camping  ground  at  Bald 
win.  Too  much  praise  cannot  be  bestowed  on  Mrs.  Belcher,  an 
estimable  lady  of  Baldwin,  and  other  patriotic  and  kind  country 
women,  for  their  attention  to  the  wounded  of  the  command.  Colo 
nel  Whitfield,  of  the  Texas  Legion,  Adjutant  J.  H.  Brigham,  and 
others,  were  received  into  her  dwelling  and  nursed  as  if  they  were 
brothers  and  not  strangers.  It  was  but  the  manifestation  of  the  pa 
triotic  devotion  of  our  fair  ladies  for  the  cause  which  their  friends 
and  relatives  had  espoused.  A  devotion  universal,  as  well  as  un 
paralleled  in  the  annals  of  history.  The  Louisiana  Regiment  reached 
Baldwin  with  two  hundred  and  seventy-five  men,  all  told. 

The  troops  rested  but  two  days,  when  orders  were  issued  to  cook 
two  days'  rations  and  prepare  to  march. 

On  the  26th,  a  pleasant  but  cloudy  morning,  the  army  was  once 
more  in  motion,  this  time  proceeding  westward.  Owing  to  the 
roughness  and  hilly  nature  of  the  road,  but  eight  miles  were  marched 
on  the  first  day. 

On  the  27th  the  army  marched  fifteen  miles,  and  encamped  five 
miles  from  Ripley,  Miss.  The  army  was  visited  here  by  heavy  rains, 
much  to  the  discomfiture  of  the  men. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  191 

On  the  29th  the  regiment  marched  into  Ripley  and  encamped. 
This  is  a  small  place-,  situated  in  a  level  plat  of  ground,  and  dis 
tinguished  for  no  particular  beauty,  either  of  location  or  buildings. 

On  the  30th  the  march  was  resumed,  the  army  proceeding  thirteen 
miles,  the  weather  being  very  warm,  and  encamped  near  a  spring  of 
fine  water,  which  had  been  veiy  scarce  on  the  road.  Passing 
through  a  small  place  called  Ruttsville,  a  large  number  of  ladies 
collected  on  the  road-side  to  see  the  troops.  A  great  many  sharp 
witticisms  passed  between  this  fair  assembly  and  the  tired  troops. 
Apples,  grapes  and  peaches  were  abundant  along  the  line  of  inarch — 
delicacies  which  the  men  made  the  most  of,  and  greatly  enjoyed. 

On  the  1st  of  October  the  regiment  proceeded  fifteen  miles,  and 
encamped  within  one  mile  of  Pocahontas,  forming  a  junction  with 
the  .forces  under  Major-General  Earl  Van  Dora.  The  regiment 
encamped  in  an  old  corn-field,  without  shelter  or  protection  of  any 
kind. 

The  next  day  the  army  was  once  more  in  motion,  leaving  their 
trains  behind,  to  camp  between  the  Tuscumbia  and  Hatchie  roads, 
prepared  to  move  on  either  as  circumstances  might  determine.  A 
demonstration  was  made  towards  Bolivar,  where  the  enemy  were 
intrenched.  They  burned  the  bridge  over  the  Hatchie,  in  front  of 
our  advancing  troops.  It  was  speedly  rebuilt,  and  the  army  pushed 
rapidly  forward  toward  Corinth,  their  true  destination  and  point 
of  attack.  The  men  remembered  the  fortifications  around  this  in 
trenched  position,  strengthened  under  the  energetic  labors  of  the 
enemy,  and  protected  by  heavy  abattis  of  felled  timber,  and  their 
hearts  misgave  then  as  to  the  final  result  when  it  was  known  where 
they  were  going  into  battle. 

On  the  3d  of  October,  as  the  reveille  sounded,  the  roar  of  artillery 
echoed  over  the  land,  disturbing  the  silence  of  the  morning  air,  in 
dicating  that  the  advance-guard  had  commenced  the  attack  on 
Corinth.  It  was  not  long  before  General  Hebert's  brigade,  led  by 
the  remnant  of  the  Third  Regiment,  were  in  motion,  making  a 
forced  march,  reaching  Corinth  about  4  p.  M.  On  every  side  were 
beheld  evidences  of  the  fierce  conflict,  in  which  the  Southern  troops 
had  thus  far  been  victorious.  General  Hebert's  Brigade  was  held 
as  a  reserve.  At  night  the  men  laid  down  on  their  arms,  and  soon 
the  quietude  and  silence  of  the  gloom  brooded  over  the  armed  hosts 
of  the  two  armies. 

The  troops  had  achieved  wonders,  charging  the  enemy's  breast 
works  over  the  fallen  timber  with  desperate  valor,  driving  them 
from  their  intrenchments,  and  capturing  several  pieces  of  artillery. 


192  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

The  success  achieved  was  dearly  bought,  by  the  loss  of  many  valu 
able  officers  and  hundreds  of  brave  men. 

At  daylight,  on  the  morning  of  the  4th,  the  regiment  was  aroused 
from  its  slumber.  The  brigade  was  first  marched  to  the  right  of 
the  railroad,  Company  K,  of  Third  Louisiana,  being  sent  forward 
as  skirmishers.  After  the  lapse  of  an  hour  the  brigade  was  marched 
back,  and  formed  in  line  of  battle  to  the  left  of  Corinth.  A  charge 
was  made  over  a  succession  of  small  hills,  defended  with  artillery, 
supported  by  infantry.  The  men  gallantly  rushed  on  the  first  line 
with  loud  cheers,  under  a  scathing  fire,  and  drove  it  back.  By 
this  time  so  many  had  fallen,  that  no  further  progress  could  be  made 
against  the  overwhelming  forces  of  the  enemy.  It  would  have  been 
madness  to  have  made  the  attempt,  and  the  brigade  was  compelled 
to  retreat.  The  regiment  lost  about  thirty  killed  and  wounded, 
being  about  one-third  of  the  number  in  the  fight.  The  right  of  the 
army  succeeded  in  penetrating  into  Corinth,  and  even  planted  the 
Confederate  flag  on  the  Tishimingo  Hotel.  The  depletion  in  the 
ranks  of  the  different  regiments  was  Jamentable.  The  forced 
marches,  the  terrible  hot  weather,  want  of  food,  and  need  of  rest,  so 
completely  exhausted  the  troops  that  large  numbers  of  them  did  not 
enter  the  fight,  having  failed  to  reach  their  commands.  As  the 
regiment  hastened  from  the  field  of  battle,  the  remnant  was  formed 
into  companies,  and  the  retreat  commenced,  marching  ten  miles 
ere  halting.  Among  the  wounded  were  Colonel  Russell,  Lieutenant 
Williams,  Company  K,  and  Lieutenant  B.  Morse,  Company  D. 

The  army  had  fought  with  a  desperation  and  valor  unequaled  — 
unprecedented  in  the  annals  of  warfare—  only  to  leave  hundreds  of 
brave  men  stiffening  corpses  on  the  field  of  battle,  sleeping  their 
long,  last  sleep  beneath  the  frowning  muzzles  of  the  enemy's  bat 
teries. 

The  annexed  official  reports  of  Generals  Van  Dora  and  Price  furnish 
full  accounts  of  the  fearful  struggle  around  and  in  this  stronghold. 

We  saw,  on  the  4th,  an  instance  of  heroism  seldom  witnessed, 
even  in  the  army.  A  lieutenant  of  the  Thirty-seventh  Alabama  had 
his  arm  broken  badly  in  the  first  day's  fight,  yet  gallantly  led  his 
company  all  day  with  it  in  that  condition.  At  night  it  was  ampu 
tated.  The  next  day,  after  marching  twenty  miles,  he  passed  the 
spot  where  the  trains  were  encamped,  whistling  '*  Dixie,"  and  look 
ing  as  calm  and  undisturbed  as  if  nothing  had  occurred  to  ruffle  his 
mind  or  cause  bodily  pain.  The  empty  sleeve,  hanging  loosely  by 
his  side,  united  with  his  quiet  exterior,  spoke  volumes  for  his  forti 
tude  in  enduring  the  agony  of  excrutiating  physical  torture. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  193 

Sunday,  October  5th,  the  army  was  once  more  on  the  retreat.  It 
was  a  bright  and  beautiful  Sabbath-day,  but  its  holy  loveliness  was 
marred  by  the  bloody  features  of  grim-yisaged  war.  Guns  were 
bellowing  forth  their  hoarse  thunder  in  front  and  rear — in  front, 
where  the  enemy  disputed  the  passage  across  the  Halchie ;  in  the 
rear,  where  General  Lovell's  Division  heroically  held  at  bay  the  pur 
suing  foe,  gallantly  covering  and  protecting  the  retreating  army. 
A  very  sharp  fight  took  place  at  Hatchie  Bridge,  demonstrating  the 
fact  that  it  would  be  impossible  to  retreat  by  the  same  route  on 
which  the  army  had  advanced.  The  only  avenue  of  escape  lay  in 
the  direction  of  Bone  Yard  road.  The  sun  sank  beneath  the  horizon 
on  the  night  of  the  5th  amid  the  thunder  of  guns  on  flank  and 
rear.  All  night  long,  in  the  darkness  and  gloom,  both  of  nature 
and  spirit,  the  retreat  continued,  the  army  succeeding  in  crossing 
the  Hatchie  over  a  temporary  bridge  hastily  constructed  on  an  old 
dam  at  Crumb's  Mills.  The  troops  halted  not  until  within  five  miles 
of  Ripley,  when  they  began  to  feel  and  realize  that  they  had  really 
escaped  from  a  perilous  position.  They  had  marched  twenty  con 
secutive  hours  without  halting,  and  were  nearly  famished  with 
hunger. 

On  this  retreat,  lost  thirteen  wagons,  which,  overturning  and 
breaking  clown,  were  destroyed.  On  the  6th  and  7th  the  retreat  still 
continued,  the  enemy  continually  pressing  and  harassing  the  rear. 
Large  numbers  of  the  men  had  straggled  off  in  small  squads,  making 
their  way  toward  Holly  Springs,  the  destination  of  the  army.  They 
were  worn  out  with  fatigue,  sadly  depressed,  almost  demoralized. 
On  the  8th,  passed  through  Roxbury,  marching  rapidly  on  the  Oxford 
road.  A  halt  was  made  for  a  short  time  at  a  place  called  Hickory 
Flats,  and  then  pushed  on,  camping  late  at  night,  and  up  long  before 
daylight,  only  to  resume  the  retreat.  On  the  9th,  passed  through 
Connersville,  and  across  the  Tallahatchie.  Thus,  day  after  day,  the 
retreat  continued,  in  sunshine  and  storm,  heat  and  cold,  until  Holly 
Springs  was  reached  on  the  llth,  where  the  scattered  forces  rapidly 
concentrated  and  were  reorganized.  The  Third  Regiment  was  in  a 
terrible  condition.  Worn  out  with  fatigue,  sick,  ragged,  filthy,  and 
covered  with  vermin,  it  was  not  strange  that  even  their  brave  spirits 
should  give  way  under  the  accumulated  disasters,  sufferings  and 
hardships  which  had  so  radidly  befallen  them.  Human  endurance 
is  not  composed  of  cast-steel,  and  they  felt,  as  well  they  might,  de 
pressed  in  spirits,  disheartened  in  mind,  prostrated  in  body. 

Hebert's  Brigade  was  detached  from  Price's  army  at  Holly  Springs. 
The  regiment  was  encamped  in  an  open  field  east  of  the  town, 
9 


194  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

skirted  by  woods.  The  country  is  billy,  an  alternate  succession  of 
ridges  and  valleys,  near  this  place.  Previous  to  the  war,  Holly 
Springs,  Miss.,  must  have  been  a  beautiful  city,  but  now  sadly  marred 
by  the  desolating  scourge  of  war.  Troops  rapidly  concentrated  at 
this  point  for  a  last  and  final  struggle. 

Major  Tunnard  once  more  visited  the  regiment  on  the  12th.  When 
he  saw  the  deplorable,  pitiable  condition  of  the  remnant  of  that 
gallant  band  of  men  whom  he  had  left  but  a  few  months  previously 
in  high  spirits  and  health,  and  strong  in  numbers,  unbidden  tears 
dimmed  his  eyes,  and  strong  emotion  filled  his  soul  and  choked  his 
voice,  as  he  returned  the  warm  greeting  of  his  old  comrades. 

REPORT  OF  MAJOR-GENERAL  EARL  VAN  DORN. 

HEADQUARTERS  ARMY  OF  WEST  TENNESSEE,/ 
Holly  Springs,  Miss.,  Oct.  20, 1862.         \ 

GENERAL, — I  have  the  honor  to  make  the  following  report  of  the 
battle  of  Corinth : 

Having  established  batteries  at  Port  Hudson,  secured  the  mouth 
of  the  Red  River  and  navigation  of  the  Mississippi  River  to  Vicks- 
burg,  I  turned  my  especial  attention  to  affairs  on  the  Northern  por 
tion  of  my  district. 

On  the  30th  day  of  August,  I  received  a  dispatch  from  General 
Bragg,  informing  me  that  he  was  about  to  march  into  Kentucky, 
and  would  leave  to  General  Price  and  myself  West  Tennessee. 

On  the  4th  day  of  September,  I  received  a  communication  from 
General  Price,  in  which  was  inclosed  a  copy  of  the  dispatch  from 
General  Bragg,  above  named,  making  an  offer  to  co-operate  with  me. 
At  this  time  General  Breckenridge  was  operating  on  the  Mississippi 
River,  between  Baton  Rouge  and  Port  Hudson,  with  all  the  avail 
able  force  I  had  for  the  field,  therefore  I  could  not  accept  General 
Price's  proposition.  Upon  the  return,  however,  of  General  Brecken 
ridge,  I  immediately  addressed  General  Price,  giving  my  views  in 
full  in  regard  to  the  campaign  in  West  Tennessee,  and  stating  that  I 
was  then  ready  to  join  him  with  all  my  troops. 

In  the  meantime,  orders  were  received  by  him  from  General  Bragg 
to  follow  Rosecrans  across  the  Tennessee  River,  into  Middle  Ten 
nessee,  whither  it  was  then  supposed  he  had  gone.  Upon  the  receipt 
of  this  intelligence,  I  felt  at  once  that  all  my  hopes  of  accomplishing 
anything  in  West  Tennessee  with  my  small  force  was  marred.  I 
nevertheless  moved  up  to  Davis's  Mills,  a  few  miles  from  Grand  Junc 
tion,  Tenn.,  with  the  intention  of  defending  my  district  to  the  best 
of  my  ability,  and  to  make  a  demonstration  in  favor  of  General 


A   SOUTHERN   RECORD.  195 

Price,  to  which  latter  end,  also,  I  marched  my  whole  command,  on 
the  20th  day  of  September,  to  within  seven  miles  of  Bolivar,  driving 
three  brigades  of  the  enemy  back  to  that  place,  and  forcing  the 
return  from  Corinth  of  one  division  (Ross's)  which  had  been  sent 
there  to  strengthen  Grant's  army. 

General  Price,  in  obedience  to  his  orders,  marched  in  the  direction 
of  luka,  to  cross  the  Tennessee,  but  was  not  long  in  discovering  that 
Rosecrans  had  not  crossed  that  stream.  This  officer,  in  connection 
with  Grant,  attacked  him  on  the  19th  day  of  September,  and  com 
pelled  him  to  fall  back  to  Baldwin,  on  the  Mobile  and  Ohio  Railroad. 
On  the  25th  day  of  the  same  month,  I  received  a  dispatch  by  courier, 
from  General  Price,  stating  that  he  was  at  Baldwin,  and  was  then 
ready  to  join  me  with  his  forces  in  an  attack  on  Corinth,  as  had 
been  previously  suggested  by  me.  We  met  at  Ripley  on  the  28th 
of  September,  according  to  agreement,  and  marched  the  next  morn 
ing  toward  Pocahontas,  which  place  we  reached  on  the  1st  of  October. 
From  all  the  information  which  I  could  obtain,  the  following  was  the 
"  situation  "  of  the  Federal  army  at  that  time :  Sherman  at  Mem 
phis,  with  about  6,000  men ;  Hurlburt,  afterward  Ord,  at  Bolivar, 
with  8,000 ;  Grant  (headquarters  at  Jackson),  with  about  3,000 ; 
Rosecrans  at  Corinth,  with  about  15,000 ;  together  with  the  following 
outposts,  viz. :  Rienzi,  2,500 ;  Burnsville,  Jacinto  and  luka,  about 
6,000.  At  important  bridges,  and  on  garrison  duty,  about  two  or 
three  thousand,  making  in  the  aggregate  about  42,000  men  in  West 
Tennessee.  Memphis,  Jackson,  Bolivar  and  Corinth  are  in  the  arc 
of  a  circle,  the  chord  of  which,  from  Memphis  to  Corinth,  makes 
an  angle  with  a  due  east  line  about  fifteen  degrees  south.  Bolivar  is 
about  equi  distant  from  Memphis,  and  Corinth  somewhat  nearer  the 
.latter,  and  is  at  the  intersection  of  the  Hatchie  River,  and  the  Missis 
sippi  Central  and  Ohio  Railroad.  Corinth  is  the  strongest,  but  most 
salient  point. 

Surveying  the  whole  field  of  operations  before  me  calmly  and  dis. 
passionately,  the  conclusion  forced  itself  irresistibly  upon  my  mind, 
that  the  taking  of  Corinth  was  a  condition  precedental  to  the  accom 
plishment  of  anything  in  West  Tennessee.  To  take  Memphis  would 
be  to  destroy  an  immense  amount  of  property,  without  any  adequate 
military  advantage,  even  admitting  that  it  could  be  held,  without 
heavy  guns,  against  the  enemy's  guns  and  mortar-boats.  The  line 
of  fortifications  around  Bolivar  is  intersected  by  the  Hatchie  River, 
rendering  it  impossible  to  take  the  place  by  quick  assault,  and  re-en 
forcements  could  be  thrown  in  from  Jackson  by  railroad ;  and,  situated 
as  it  is,  in  the  angle  of  the  three  fortified  places,  an  advance  upon  it 


196  A   SOUTHERN   EECORD. 

would  expose  both  my  flanks  and  rear  to  an  attack  from  Memphis 
and  Corinth. 

It  was  clear  to  my  mind  that  if  a  successful  attack  could  be  made 
upon  Corinth  from  the  west  and  north-west,  the  forces  there  driven 
back  on  the  Tennessee  and  cut  off,  Bolivar  and  Jackson  would  easily 
fall,  and  then,  upon  the  arrival  of  exchanged  prisoners  of  war,  West 
Tennessee  would  soon  be  in  our  possession,  and  communication  with 
Bragg  effected  through  Middle  Tennessee.  The  attack  on  Corinth 
was  a  military  necessity  requiring  prompt  and  vigorous  action. 

It  was  being  strengthened  daily  under  that  astute  soldier,  General 
Rosecrans;  convalescents  were  returning  to  fill  his  ranks  ;  new  levies 
were  arriving  to  increase  his  brigades,  and  fortifications  were  being 
constructed  at  new  points  ;  and  it  was  very  evident  that,  unless  a  sud 
den  and  vigorous  blow  could  be  struck  there  at  once,  no  hope  could 
be  entertained  of  driving  the  enemy  from  a  base  of  operations  so 
convenient ;  that  in  the  event  of  misfortune  to  Bragg  in  Kentucky, 
the  whole  valley  of  the  Mississippi  would  be  lost  to  us  before  winter. 
To  have  awaited  for  the  arrival,  arming,  clothing  and  organization 
of  the  exchanged  prisoners,  would  have  been  to  wait  for  the  enemy 
to  strengthen  themselves  more  than  we  could  possibly  do.  With 
these  reflections,  and  after  mature  deliberation,  I  determined  to 
attempt  Corinth.  I  had  a  reasonable  hope  of  success.  Field  returns 
at  Ripley  showed  my  strength  to  be  about  22,000  men.  Rosecrans, 
at  Corinth,  had  about  15,000,  with  about  8,000  additional  at  outposts 
from  twelve  to  fifteen  miles  distant.  I  might  surprise  him,  and  carry 
the  place  before  these  troops  could  be  brought  in.  I  therefore 
marched  toward  Pocahontas,  threatening  Bolivar,  then  turned  sud 
denly  across  the  Hatchie  and  Tuscumbia,  and  attacked  Corinth  with 
out  hesitation,  and  did  surprise  that  place  before  the  outpost  garri 
sons  were  called  in.  It  was  necessary  that  this  blow  should  be 
sudden  and  decisive,  and,  if  unsuccessful,  that  I  should  withdraw 
rapidly  from  the  position  between  the  armies  of  Ord  and  Rosecrans. 
The  troops  were  in  fine  spirits,  and  the  whole  army  of  West  Tennes 
see  seemed  eager  to  emulate  the  armies  of  the  Potomac  and  of 
Kentucky.  No  army  ever  marched  to  battle  with  prouder  steps, 
hopeful  countenances,  or  with  more  courage,  than  marched  the  army 
of  Tennessee  out  of  Ripley,  on  the  morning  of  the  29th  of  September, 
on  its  way  to  Corinth. 

Fully  alive  to  the  responsibility  of  my  position  as  commander  of 
the  army,  and  after  mature  and  deliberate  reflection,  the  march  was 
ordered.  The  ground  was  well-known  to  me,  and  required  no  study 
to  determine  where  to  make  the  attack.  The  bridge  over  the  Hatchie 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  197 

was  soon  reconstructed,  and  the  army  crossed  at  4  o'clock  A.  M.  on 
the  3d  of  October.  Adams's  brigade  of  cavalry  was  left  to  guard 
this  approach  to  our  rear,  and  to  protect  the  train  which  was  parked 
between  the  Hatchie  and  Tuscumbia.  Colonel  Hawkins's  regiment 
of  infantry,  and  Captain  Dawson's  battery  of  artillery,  were  also  left 
in  the  Bone  Yard  road,  in  easy  supporting  distance  of  the  bridge. 
The  army  bivouacked  at  Chewalla,  after  the  driving  in  of  some 
pickets  from  that  vicinity  by  Armstrong's  and  Jackson's  cavalry. 
This  point  is  about  ten  miles  from  Corinth. 

At  daybreak  on  the  3d  the  march  was  resumed,  the  precaution 
having  been  taken  to  cut  the  railroad  between  Corinth  and  Jackson 
by  a  squadron  of  Armstrong's  cavalry.  Lovell's  division,  in  front, 
kept  the  south  side  of  the  Memphis  and  Charleston  Railroad.  Price, 
after  marching  on  the  same  road  about  five  miles,  turned  to  the  left 
and  formed  line  of  battle  in  front  of  the  outer  line  of  intrenchments, 
and  about  three  miles  from  Corinth.  Lovell  formed  line  of  battle, 
after  some  heavy  skirmishing  (having  to  construct  a  passage  across 
the  dry  bed  of  Indian  Creek  for  his  artillery,  under  fire),  on  the  right 
and  in  front  of  the  same  line  of  intrenchments. 

The  following  was  the  first  order  of  battle  :  The  three  brigades 
of  Lovell's  Division,  Yillepegue's,  Bowen's  and  Rust's  in  line,  with 
reserve  in  rear  of  each ;  Jackson's  cavalry  brigade  on  the  right,  in 
echelon.  The  left  flank  of  the  division  on  the  Charleston  Railroad ; 
Price's  Corps  on  the  left,  with  the  right  flank  resting  on  the  same 
road ;  Maury's  Division  on  the  right,  with  Moore's  and  Phifler's  Bri 
gades  in  line  ;  Heberfs  Division  on  the  left,  with  Gates's  and  Martin's 
Brigades  in  line ;  Colbert's  in  reserve  ;  Armstrong's  Cavalry  Brigades 
on  the  extreme  left,  somewhat  detached  and  out  of  view.  Hebert's 
left  was  masked  behind  a  timbered  ridge,  with  orders  not  to  bring  it 
into  action  until  the  last  moment.  This  was  done  in  hopes  of 
inducing  the  enemy  to  weaken  his  right  by  re-enforcing  his  centre 
and  left,  where  the  attack  was  first  to  be  niade^  that  his  right  might 
be  forced. 

At  10  o'clock  all  skirmishers  were  driven  into  the  intrenchments, 
and  the  two  armies  were  in  line  of  battle  confronting  each  other  in 
force.  A  belt  of  fallen  timber,  or  abattis,  about  four  hundred  yards 
in  width,  extended  along  the  whole  line  of  intrenchments.  This 
was  to  be  crossed.  The  attack  commenced  on  the  right,  by  Lovell's 
Division,  and  extended  gradually  to  the  left;  and  by  half-past  10 
o'clock  the  whole  line  of  outer  works  was  earned,  several  pieces  of 
artillery  being  taken.  The  enemy  made  several  ineffectual  efforts  to 
hold  their  ground,  forming  line  of  battle  at  advantageous  points, 


198  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

and  resisting  obstinately  our  advance  to  the  second  line  of  detached 
works.  I  had  been  in  hopes  that  one  day's  operations  would  end  the 
contest,  and  decide  who  should  be  the  victors  on  this  bloody  field  ; 
but  a  ten  miles'  march  over  a  parched  country,  on  dusty  roads,  with 
out  water,  getting  into  line  of  battle  in  forests  with  undergrowth, 
and  the  more  than  usual  activity  and  determined  courage  displayed 
by  the  enemy,  commanded  by  one  of  the  ablest  generals  of  the 
United  States  army,  who  threw  all  possible  obstacles  in  our  way  that 
an  active  mind  could  suggest,  prolonged  the  battle,  until  I  saw,  with 
regret,  the  sun  sink  behind  the  horizon  as  the  last  shot  of  our  sharp 
shooters  followed  the  retreating  foe  into  their  innermost  lines.  One 
hour  more  of  daylight,  and  victory  would  have  soothed  our  grief 
for  the  loss  of  the  gallant  dead  who  sleep  on  that  lost  but  not  dis 
honored  field.  The  army  slept  on  their  arms,  within  six  hundred 
yards  of  Corinth,  victorious  so  far.  During  the  night,  three  batteries 
were  ordered  to  take  position  on  the  ridge  overlooking  the  town 
from  the  West,  just  where  the  hills  dip  into  the  flat  extending  into 
the  railroad  depot,  with  instructions  to  open  on  the  town  at  4  o'clock 
A.  M.  Hebert,  on  the  left,  was  ordered  to  mass  a  portion  of  his  divi 
sion  on  his  left ;  to  put  Cabell's  Brigade  in  echelon  on  the  left ;  also 
(Cabell's  Brigade  being  detached  from  Maury's  Division  for  this  pur 
pose),  to  move  Armstrong's  Cavalry  Brigade  across  the  Mobile  and 
Ohio  Railroad,  and,  if  possible,  to  get  some  of  his  artillery  in  position 
across  the  road.  In  this  order  of  battle  he  was  directed  to  attack 
at  daybreak  with  his  whole  force,  swinging  his  left  flank  in  toward 
Corinth,  and  advance  down  the  Purdy  Ridge.  Lovell,  on  the  extreme 
right,  with  two  of  his  brigades  in  line  of  battle  and  one  in  reserve, 
with  Jackson's  Cavalry  on  the  extreme  right  on  College  Hill,  his  left 
resting  on  the  Memphis  and  Charleston  Railroad,  was  ordered  to 
await  in  this  order,  or  to  feel  his  way  along  slowly  with  his  sharp 
shooters,  until  Hebert  was  heavily  engaged  with  the  enemy  on  the 
left.  He  was  then  to  move  rapidly  to  the  assault,  and  force  his  right 
inward  across  the  low  grounds  south-west  of  the  town.  The  centre, 
under  Maury,  was  to  move  quickly  at  the  same  time  to  the  front,  and 
directly  at  Corinth.  Jackson  was  directed  to  burn  the  railroad 
bridge  over  the  Tuscumbia  during  the  night.  Daylight  came,  and 
there  was  no  attack  on  the  left.  A  staff  officer  was  sent  to  Hebert 
to  inquire  the  cause.  That  officer  could  not  be  found.  Another 
messenger  was  sent,  and  a  third,  and,  about  7  o'clock,  Hebert  came 
to  my  headquarters  and  reported  sick.  General  Price  then  put 
General  Green  in  command  of  the  left  wing,  and  it  was  8  o'clock 
before  the  proper  dispositions  for  the  attack  at  this  point  were  made. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  199 

In  the  meantime  the  troops  of  Maury's  left  became  engaged  with 
the  enemy's  sharpshooters,  and  the  battle  was  brought  on  and  ex 
tended  along  the  whole  centre  and  left  wing ;  and  I  regretted  to 
observe  that  my  whole  plan  of  attack  was,  by  this  unfortunate  delay, 
disarranged.  One  brigade  after  another  went  gallantly  into  action, 
and,  pushing  forward  through  direct  and  cross-fire,  over  every  obstacle, 
reached  Corinth  and  planted  their  colors  on  the  last  stronghold  of 
the  enemy.  A  hand-to-hand  contest  was  being  enacted  in  the  very 
yard  of  General  Rosecrans's  headquarters,  and  in  the  streets  of  tbe 
town.  The  heavy  guns  were  silenced,  and  all  seemed  about  to  be 
ended,  when  a  heavy  fire  from  fresh  troops  from  luka,  Burnsville 
and  Rienzi,  that  had  succeeded  in  reaching  Corinth  in  time,  poured 
into  our  thinned  ranks.  Exhausted  from  loss  of  sleep,  wearied  from 
hard  marching  and  fighting,  companies  in  regiments  without  officers, 
our  troops  (let  no  one  censure  them)  gave  way.  The  day  was  lost ! 
Lovell's  Division  was  at  this  time  advancing,  pursuant  to  orders,  and 
was  on  the  point  of  assaulting  the  works,  when  he  received  my 
orders  to  throw  one  of  his  brigades,  Yillepigue's,  rapidly  to  the 
centre,  to  cover  the  broken  ranks  thrown  back  from  Corinth,  and  to 
prevent  a  sortie. 

He  then  moved  his  whole  division  to  the  left,  and  was  soon  after 
wards  ordered  to  move  slowly  back  and  take  position  on  Indian 
Creek,  and  prevent  the  enemy  from  turning  our  flank.  The  centre 
and  left  were  withdrawn  on  the  same  road  on  which  they  approached, 
and  being  somewhat  in  confusion  on  account  of  loss  of  officers, 
fatigue,  thirst,  want  of  sleep,  thinned  ranks,  and  the  nature  of  the 
ground,  Villepigue's  Brigade  was  brought  in  opportunely,  and  cover 
ed  the  road  to  Chewalla. 

Lovell  came  in  the  rear  of  the  whole  army,  and  all  bivouacked 
again  at  Chewalla.  No  enemy  disturbed  the  sleep  of  the  weary- 
troops.  During  the  night  I  had  a  bridge  constructed  over  the  Tus- 
cumbia,  and  sent  Armstrong's  and  Jackson's  cavalry,  with  a  battery 
of  artillery,  to  seize  and  hold  Rienzi  until  the  army  came  up,  intend 
ing  to  march  to  and  hold  that  point ;  but  after  consultation  with 
General  Price,  who  represented  his  troops  to  be  somewhat  disor 
ganized,  it  was  deemed  advisable  to  return  by  the  same  road  that 
we  came,  and  fall  back  toward  Ripley  and  Oxford.  Anticipating 
that  the  Bolivar  force  would  move  out  and  dispute  my  passage  across 
the  Hatchie  bridge,  I  pushed  rapidly  on  to  that  point,  in  hopes  of 
reaching  and  securing  the  bridge  before  their  arrival ;  but  I  soon 
learned,  by  couriers  from  Wirt  Adams,  that  I  would  be  too  late.  I 
nevertheless  pushed  on,  with  the  intention  of  engaging  the  enemy 


200  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

until  I  could  get  my  train  and  reserved  artillery  imparked  and  on 
the  Bone  Yard  road  to  the  crossing  at  Crumb's  Mills.  (This  road 
branches  off  south  from  tho  State-line  road,  about  two  and  a  half 
miles  west  of  the  Tuscumbia  bridge,  running  south,  or  up  the  Hatchie.) 
No  contest  of  long  duration  could  be  made  here,  as  it  was  evident 
that  the  army  of  Corinth  would  soon  make  its  appearance  on  our 
right  flank  and  rear.  The  trains  and  reserve  artillery  were  therefore 
immediately  ordered  on  the  Bone  Yard  road,  and  orders  were  sent 
to  Armstrong  and  Jackson  to  change  their  direction,  and  cover  the 
front  and  flank  of  the  trains  until  they  crossed  the  Hatchie,  and  then 
to  cover  them  in  front  until  they  were  on  the  Ripley  road.  The 
enemy  were  then  engaged  beyond  the  Hatchie  bridge  by  small  frag 
ments  of  Maury's  Division  as  they  could  be  hastened  up,  and  were 
kept  in  check  sufficiently  long  to  get  everything  off.  General  Ord 
commanded  the  forces  of  the  enemy,  and  succeeded  in  getting  into 
position  before  any  number  of  our  travel-worn  troops  could  get  into 
line  of  battle.  It  is  not  surprising,  therefore,  that  they  were  driven 
back  across  the  bridge ;  but  they  maintained  their  position  on  the 
hills  overlooking  it,  under  their  gallant  leader,  General  Price,  until 
orders  were  sent  to  fall  back,  and  take  up  their  line  of  inarch  on  the 
Bone  Yard  road,  in  rear  of  the  whole  train.  At  one  time,  fearing 
that  the  enemy,  superior  in  numbers  to  the  whole  force  I  had  in  ad 
vance  of  the  train,  would  drive  us  back,  I  ordered  General  Lovell  to 
leave  one  brigade  to  guard  the  reserve  to  Tuscumbia  bridge,  and  to 
push  forward  with  the  other  two  to  the  front.  This  order  was 
quickly  executed,  and  very  soon  the  splendid  brigades  of  Rust  and 
Villepique  made  their  appearance  close  at  hand. 

The  army  corps  of  General  Price  was  withdrawn,  and  Villepigue 
filed  in  and  took  position  as  rear-guard  to  the  army  against  Ord's 
forces.  Rust  was  ordered  forward  to  report  to  General  Price,  who 
was  directed  to  cross  the  Hatchie  at  Crumb's  Mills  and  take  position 
to  cover  the  crossing  of  the  teams  and  artillery.  Bowen  was  left  at 
Tuscumbia  bridge,  as  rear-guard  against  the  advance  of  Rosecrans 
from  Corinth,  with  orders  to  defend  that  bridge  until  the  trains 
were  embarked  and  on  the  road ;  then  to  cross  the  bridge  and  burn 
it,  and  to  join  Villepigue  at  the  junction  of  the  roads.  In  the  exe 
cution  of  this  order,  and  while  in  position  near  the  bridge,  the  head 
of  the  Corinth  army  made  its  appearance  and  engaged  him,  but  was 
repulsed  with  heavy  loss,  and  in  a  manner  that  reflected  great  credit 
on  General  Bowen  and  his  brigade.  The  army  was  not  again 
molested  on  its  retreat  to  Ripley,  nor  on  its  march  to  this  place.  The 
following  was  found  to  be  our  loss  in  the  several  conflicts  with  the 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  201 

enemy,  and  on  the  march  to  and  from  Corinth,  viz. :  killed,  594 ; 
wounded,  2,162 ;  prisoners  and  missing,  2,102.  One  piece  of  artillery 
was  driven  in  the  night  by  a  mistake  into  the  enemy's  lines  and  cap 
tured.  Four  pieces  wore  taken  at  the  Hatchie  bridge,  the  horses 
being  shot.  Nine  wagons  were  upset  and  abandoned  by  the  team 
sters  on  the  night's  march  to  Crumb's  Mills.  Some  baggage  was 
thrown  out  of  the  wagons,  not  amounting  to  any  serious  loss. 

Two  pieces  of  artillery  were  captured  from  the  enemy  at  Corinth 
by  Lovell's  Division,  one  of  which  was  brought  off.  Five  pieces 
were  also  taken  by  General  Price's  Corps,  two  of  which  were  brought 
off.  Thus  making  a  loss  to  us  of  only  two  pieces.  The  enemy's 
loss  in  killed  and  wounded,  by  their  own  accounts,  was  over  3,000. 
We  took  over  three  hundred  prisoners ;  most  of  the  prisoners  taken 
from  us  were  the  stragglers  from  the  army  on  the  retreat. 

The  retreat  from  Corinth  was  not  a  rout,  as  it  has  been  industri 
ously  represented  by  the  enemy,  and  by  the  cowardly  deserters  from 
the  army.  The  Division  of  General  Lovell  formed  line  of  battle, 
facing  the  rear,  on  several  occasions,  when  it  was  reported  the  enemy 
was  near ;  but  not  a  gun  was  fired  after  the  army  retired  from  the 
Hatchie  and  Tuscumbia  bridges.  Nor  did  the  enemy  follow,  except 
at  a  respectful  distance.  Although  many  officers  and  soldiers,  who 
distinguished  themselves  in  the  battle  of  Corinth  and  in  the  affair 
of  Hatchie  bridge,  came  under  my  personal  observation,  I  will  not 
mention  them  to  the  exclusion  of  others  who  may  have  been  equally 
deserving,  but  who  did  not  fall  under  my  own  eye  ;  I  have  deemed  it 
best  to  call  on  the  different  commanders  to  furnish  me  with  a  special 
report,  and  a  list  of  the  names  of  the  officers  and  soldiers  of  their 
respective  commands  who  deserve  special  mention.  These  lists  and 
special  reports  I  will  take  pleasure  in  forwarding,  together  with  one 
of  my  own,  when  completed-;  and  I  respectfully  request  that  they 
be  appended  as  part  of  my  report.  I  cannot  refrain,  however,  from 
mentioning  here  the  conspicuous  gallantry  of  a  noble  Texan,  whose 
deeds  at  Corinth  are  the  constant  theme  of  both  friends  and  foes. 
As  long  as  courage,  manliness,  fortitude,  patriotism,  and  honor  exist, 
the  name  of  Rogers  will  be  revered  and  honored  among  men.  He 
fell  in  the  front  of  the  battle  and  died  beneath  the  colors  of  his 
regiment,  in  the  very  centre  of  the  enemy's  stronghold.  He  sleeps, 
and  glory  is  his  sentence  ! 

The  attempt  at  Corinth  has  failed,  and,  in  consequence,  I  am  con 
demned,  and  have  been  superseded  in  my  command.  In  my  zeal  for 
my  country  I  have  ventured  too  far  with  inadequate  means,  and  I 
bow  to  the  opinion  of  the  people  whom  I  serve.  Yet  I  feel,  if  the 
9* 


202  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

spirits  of  the  gallant  dead  who  now  lie  beneath  the  batteries  of 
Corinth  could  see  and  judge  the  motives  of  men,  they  do  not  rebuke 
me,  for  there  is  no  sting  in  my  conscience.     Nor  does  retrospection 
admonish  me  of  error,  or  of  a  disregard  of  their  valued  lives. 
Very  respectfully,  sir,  I  am 

Your  obedient  servant, 

EAEL  VAN  DORN,  Major- General. 

REPORT   OP  MAJOR-GENERAL  PRICE    OF    THE    BATTLES    OF    CORINTH 
AND   DAVIS'S   BRIDGE. 

HEAD-QUARTERS,  ARMY  OF  THE  WEST,) 
Holly  Springs,  October  20^,  1862.      f 

MAJOR  : — I  have  the  honor  to  submit  the  following  report  of  the 
operations  of  this  army  connected  with  the  several  engagements  at 
Corinth  and  Davis's  bridge,  of  the  3d,  4th,  and  5th  instants.  Having 
arranged  with  Major-General  Van  Dorn  to  unite  my  forces  with  his 
for  active  operations,  I  joined  him  at  Ripley,  on  the  27th  ult.  My 
force  at  this  time  consisted  of  effective  infantry,  10,498 ;  effective 
cavalry,  2,437 ;  effective  artillery,  928  men,  and  forty-four  guns,  in 
cluding  two  24-pounder  howitzers,  and  four  rifled  pieces  of  three 
and  five-eighths  calibre.  The  infantry  was  divided  into  two  Di 
visions,  commanded  by  Brigadier-Generals  Maury  and  Hebert. 
Maury's  Division  consisted  of  three  brigades,  commanded  by  Brig 
adier-General  Green  and  Colonels  Martin  Gates  and  Colbert.  The 
cavalry,  except  such  companies  as  were  on  detached  service,  was 
under  command  of  Acting  Brigadier-General  Armstrong.  The  ar 
tillery  was  appointed  as  follows :  with  Maury's  Division,  Hoxton's 
Battery,  Lieutenant  Tobin,  commanding ;  Bledsoe's  Battery ;  McNal- 
ly's  Battery,  Lieutenant  Moore,  commanding ;  Lucas's  Battery,  and 
Songstack's  Battery.  Hoxton's  and  Brown's  Batteries,  and  Song- 
stack's  Battery  were  held  as  reserves,  under  command  of  Lieutenant 
Burnett,  Acting  Chief  of  Artillery  of  the  Division.  With  Hebert's 
Division  were  Wade's,  Landis's,  Guibo's,  Dawson's  and  King's.  The 
cavalry  force  under  General  Armstrong  reported  to  the  Major-Gen 
eral  commanding  the  combined  forces,  and  afterward  acted  under 
direct  orders  from  him. 

On  the  morning  of  the  30th  ultimo,  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
in  the  direction  of  Pocahontas,  which  place  we  reached  on  the  1st 
instant,  and  from  which  we  moved  on  the  enemy  at  Corinth,  bivou 
acking  on  the  night  of  the  2d  instant  at  a  point  nearly  opposite  to 
Chewalla,  having  left  one  regiment  of  infantry  and  a  section  of  artil 
lery  with  the  wagon-train  as  a  guard. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  203 

At  4  o'clock,  on  the  morning  of  the  3d  instant,  we  resumed  the 
march,  my  command  moving  on  the  main  Pocahontas  and  Corinth 
road,  in  rear  of  General  Lovell's.  At  a  point  about  a  mile  and  a 
half  from  the  enemy's  outer  line  of  fortifications,  my  command  made 
a  detour  to  the  left,  with  instructions  to  occupy  the  ground  between 
the  Memphis  and  Charleston  and  Mobile  and  Ohio  Railroads.  This 
done,  my  line — Maury  occupying  the  right  and  Hebert  the  left,  with 
Coball's  and  Colbert's  Brigades  in  reserve — fronted  the  enemy's 
work  in  a  south-easterly  direction,  the  right  resting  upon  the 
Memphis  and  Charleston  Railroad.  While  these  dispositions  were 
making,  General  Lovell  engaged  the  enemy  upon  our  right.  All 
being  now  ready  for  the  attack,  my  line  was  ordered  forward  at 
about  10  o'clock  A.  M.  Almost  simultaneously  with  the  movement, 
the  opposed  armies  became  engaged  in  desperate  conflict  along  the 
whole  extent  of  my  line.  My  command  had  scarcely  cleared  the 
position  of  its  first  formation,  when,  entering  an  abattis  of  more 
than  three  hundred  yards,  it  became  unmasked  before  a  position 
naturally  exceedingly  formidable,  and  rendered  trebly  so  by  the  ex 
tent  of  felled  timber  through  which  it  must  be  approached,  and 
the  most  approved  and  scientifically-constructed  intrenchment,  bristl 
ing  with  artillery  of  large  calibre,  and  supported  by  heavy  lines  of 
infantry.  My  troops  charged  the  enemy's  position  with  the  most 
determined  courage,  exposed  to  a  murderous  fire  of  musketry  and 
artillery.  Without  faltering,  they  pressed  forward  over  every  ob 
stacle,  and,  with  shouts  and  cheers,  carried,  in  less  than  twenty 
minutes,  the  entire  line  of  works — the  enemy  having  fled,  leaving 
in  our  hands  many  prisoners  and  two  pieces  of  artillery — one  a  4-inch 
Parrott  gun,  the  other  a  24-pounder  howitzer.  Our  loss  in  this 
attack  was  comparatively  small.  This  is  attributable  to  the  impetu 
osity  with  which  the  charge  was  made  and  the  works  carried.  It 
becomes  my  painful  duty,  in  this  connection,  to  revert  to  the  dis 
tinguished  services  of  two  gallant  officers  who  fell  in  this  engage 
ment — Colonel  John  D.  Martin,  commanding  a  brigade  of  Missis- 
sippians,  and  Lieutenant  Samuel  Farrington,  of  Wade's  Battery. 
Colonel  Martin  fell  mortally  wounded  while  leading  the  charge 
against  an  angle  in  the  enemy's  works,  exposed  to  the  fire  of  enfilad 
ing  batteries.  The  gallant  bearing  of  this  officer  on  more  than  one 
bloody  field  had  won  for  him  a  place  in  the  heart  of  every  Missis- 
sippian,  and  the  admiration  and  confidence  of  his  superior  officers. 
Lieutenant  Farrington  was  struck  and  instantly  killed  by  a  shot 
from  a  rifled  gun,  while  bringing  one  of  the  guns  of  his  battery  into 
position.  This  gallant  soldier,  and  courteous  and  chivalric  gentle- 


20i  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

man,  forgetful  of  personal  interest,  and  mindful  of  the  necessities 
of  the  service,  resigned  a  lieutenant-colonelcy  in  the  service  of  his 
State  for  a  lieutenancy  in  the  Confederate  service,  and  gave  up  his 
life,  a  glorious  sacrifice  upon  the  altar  of  his  country's  honor,  in  the 
seventh  of  the  battles  in  which  he  has  been  conspicuous  for  cool, 
determined,  and  eifective  bravery.  Though  young,  his  country 
mourns  no  more  valiant  defender,  his  command  no  abler  commander, 
his  friends  no  worthier  recipient  of  their  affections.  The  outer 
works  being  in  our  possession,  my  line  moved  forward  in  pursuit  of 
the  retreating  enemy  until  within  one  mile  of  Corinth,  where  the 
enemy  was  encountered  in  position  and  in  force.  The  necessary  dis 
positions  being  made,  my  whole  line  again  moved  forward  to  the 
attack  about  3  o'clock  p.  M.  Here  the  fighting  was  of  unparalleled 
fierceness  along  the  whole  extent  of  my  line.  The  position  of  the 
enemy  along  the  whole  extent  of  his  lines  was  covered  by  fencing, 
heavy  timber,  or  underbrush,  while  portions  of  my  troops  advanced 
through  open  fields  exposed  to  a  deadly  fire  of  batteries  operating 
over  the  enemy's  line  of  infantry.  Here,  as  in  the  assault  upon  the 
outer  works,  we  had  little  artillery  in  action,  it  being  impossible  to 
procure  such  positions  for  my  batteries  as  would  enable  them  to  co 
operate  effectively  with  the  infantry.  After  continuous  and  most 
desperate  fighting  along  the  whole  extent  of  my  line,  of  nearly  two 
hours'  duration,  the  enemy,  notwithstanding  his  lines  had  been 
trebled  by  reinforcements,  was  driven  from  his  position,  and  forced 
to  take  refuge  in  his  innermost  works  in  and  around  the  town. 

The  troops  of  my  command,  having  nearly  exhausted  their  am 
munition  in  their  heavy  fighting  through  the  day,  were  withheld 
from  immediate  pursuit,  and  the  delay  in  procuring  the  necessary 
supply  of  ammunition  forced  me  to  close  the  fight  for  the  day.  My 
troops  were  withdrawn  for  cover,  and  laid  on  their  arms  during  the 
night  in  the  position  from  which  the  enemy  had  been  driven. 

About  4  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  the  4th,  three  batteries  of  my 
command  were  placed  in  position,  and  opened  fire  upon  the  town, 
under  the  immediate  orders  of  the  Major-General  commanding. 
About  daylight,  orders  were  received  to  advance  my  whole  line.  In 
the  execution  of  the  order,  a  delay  was  occasioned  by  the  illness  of 
Brigadier-General  Hebert,  commanding  a  division.  He  was  neces 
sarily  relieved  from  duty.  The  command  devolved  upon  Brigadier- 
General  Green,  who  moved  forward  as  soon  as  he  could  make  the 
necessary  disposition  of  his  troops.  It  was  after  9  o'clock  when 
my  line  became  generally  and  furiously  engaged  with  the  enemy  in 
his  innermost  and  most  formidable  works,  from  which  his  infantry 


THIRD  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  205 

and  artillery  could  jointly  operate  against  my  troops.  Here,  as  in 
the  previous  actions,  my  artillery  could  not  be  brought  effectively 
into  action,  and  but  few  of  the  guns  were  engaged.  The  fighting, 
by  my  command,  was  almost  entirely  confined  to  the  infantry.  My 
men  pressed  forward  upon  the  enemy,  and,  with  heavy  loss,  suc 
ceeded  in  getting  into  the  works,  having  driven  him  from  them, 
capturing  more  than  forty  pieces  of  artillery,  and  forcing  him  to 
take  refuge  in  the  houses  of  the  town,  and  in  every  place  that  could 
afford  protection  from  our  galling  fire.  He  was  followed,  and  driven 
from  house  to  house,  with  great  slaughter.  In  the  town  were  bat 
teries  in  mask,  supported  by  heavy  reserves,  behind  which  the  re 
treating  enemy  took  shelter,  and  which  opened  on  our  troops  a 
most  destructive  fire  at  short  range.  My  men  held  their  positions 
most  gallantly  returning  the  fire  of  the  enemy  with  great  spirit, 
until  a  portion  of  them  exhausted  their  ammunition  and  were  com 
pelled  to  retire.  This  necessitated  the  withdrawal  of  the  whole  line, 
which  was  done  under  a  withering  fire.  The  attack  was  not  re 
sumed,  and  we  fell  back  to  our  supply-train,  the  men  being  almost 
exhausted  from  exertion  and  the  want  of  food  and  water.  General 
Villepigue's  Brigade  moved  over  to  our  assistance,  but  did  not 
become  engaged,  as  the  enemy  was  too  badly  cut  up  to  follow  us. 
We  fell  back,  in  order  to  obtain  water,  some  six  miles  from  Corinth, 
where  we  bivouacked  for  the  night,  bringing  off  all  our  artillery 
and  arms,  save  one  rifle-piece,  which  had  been  inadvertently  driven 
into  the  enemy's  line  while  going  into  battle  before  daylight  in  the 
morning,  and  had  been  left.  We  brought  off,  also,  the  two  guns 
captured  at  the  outer  line  of  fortifications  on  the  3d.  It  is  impos 
sible  for  me  to  do  justice  to  the  courage  of  my  troops  in  these 
engagements,  nor  can  I  discriminate  between  officers  and  commands 
where  all  behaved  so  nobly.  This  is  the  less  necessary,  as  the  opera 
tions  of  my  command  were  under  the  immediate  observation  of  the 
Major-General  commanding.  For  the  minute  details  of  the  actions, 
especially  of  the  artillery,  of  the  3d  and  4th  instants,  I  beg  leave  to 
refer  the  Major-General  commanding  to  the  reports  of  the  command 
ing  officers,  herewith  inclosed. 

On  the  morning  of  the  5th  instant  we  resumed  the  march  in  the 
direction  of  Pocahontas,  my  command  moving  by  division,  Maury's 
in  front,  each  in  rear  of  its  ordnance  and  supply  train,  except 
Moore's  Brigade,  which  constituted  the  advance-guard.  After  cross 
ing  the  Tuscumbia,  Moore's  Brigade  was  hurried  forward  to  protect 
Davis's  bridge  across  the  Hatchie,  which  was  threatened  by  an 
advance  of  the  enemy. 


206  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

It  being  found  that  the  enemy  were  in  force,  the  remainder  of 
Maury's  Division  was  ordered  forward,  and  finally  I  was  ordered  to 
move  up  my  whole  command.  Moore's  Brigade,  with  a  section  of 
the  St.  Louis  Battery,  and  Songstack's  Battery,  were  thrown  across 
the  Hatchie,  but  the  enemy  having  possession  of  the  heights  com 
manding  the  crossing,  as  well  as  the  position  in  which  these  troops 
were  placed,  and  it  being  found  that  he  was  in  very  heavy  force,  it 
was  deemed  advisable  to  cross  the  Hatchie  by  another  road,  and  these 
troops  were  withdrawn,  after  serious  loss,  to  the  east  side  of  the 
Hatchie,  where,  being  joined  by  Cabell's  and  Phiffer's  Brigades,  and 
assisted  by  the  batteries  of  McNally,  Hogg,  Landis,  and  Tobin,  they 
effectually  checked  the  advance  of  the  enemy.  Green's  Division, 
which  had  been  delayed  in  passing  the  wagon  train  that  had  been 
unparked  near  the  Tuscumbia,  arriving  on  the  ground,  was  formed 
in  line  of  battle  ;  but  the  enemy  making  no  further  effort  to  advance, 
the  whole  of  my  command  was  moved  off  by  another  route,  General 
Lovell's  command  being  in  our  rear. 

This  was  our  last  engagement  with  the  enemy.  In  this  last  en 
gagement  we  lost  four  guns  by  the  killing  of  horses.  Our  whole 
train  came  off  without  molestation  or  loss,  except  of  a  few  wagons, 
that  were  broken  down  and  had  to  be  abandoned. 

The  history  of  the  war  contains  no  bloodier  page,  perhaps,  than 
that  which  will  record  this  fiercely-contested  battle.  The  strongest 
expressions  fall  short  of  my  admiration  of  the  gallant  conduct  of  the 
officers  and  men  of  my  command.  Words  cannot  add  lustre  to  the 
fame  they  have  acquired  through  deeds  of  noble  daring,  which,  living 
through  future  time,  will  shed  about  every  man,  officer,  and  soldier, 
who  stood  to  his  arms  through  this  struggle,  a  halo  of  glory  as  im 
perishable  as  it  is  brilliant. 

They  have  won  to  their  sisters  and  daughters  the  distinguished 
honor  set  before  them  by  a  General,  of  their  love  and  admiration 
upon  the  event  of  an  impending  battle,  upon  the  same  fields,  of  the 
proud  exclamation,  "  My  brother,  father,  was  at  the  great  battle  of 
Corinth  !"  The  bloodiest  record  of  this  battle  is  yet  to  come.  The 
long  list  of  the  gallant  dead  upon  this  field  will  carry  sorrow  to  the 
hearth-stones  of  many  a  noble  champion  of  our  cause,  as  it  does  to 
the  hearths  of  those  who  arc  to  avenge  them.  A  nation  mourns 
their  loss,  while  it  cherishes  the  story  of  their  glorious  death,  point 
ing  out  to  their  associate  officers  in  this  mighty  struggle  for  liberty 
the  pathway  to  victory  and  honor.  They  will  live  ever  in  the  hearts 
of  the  admiring  people  of  the  government,  for  the  establishment  of 
which  they  have  given  their  lives.  Of  the  field  officers  killed  were 


THIRD  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  207 

Colonels  Rogers,  Second  Texas  Infantry,  who  fell  in  the  heart  of  the 
town,  of  eleven  wounds ;  Johnson,  of  Twentieth  Arkansas,  and 
Daly,  of  Eighteenth  Arkansas.  Lieutenant-Colonels  Maupin,  First 
Missouri  Cavalry,  dismounted,  and  Leigh,  Forty-third  Mississippi. 
Majors  Yaughan,  Sixth  Missouri  Infantry,  Doudell,  Twenty-first  Ar 
kansas,  and  McDonald,  Fortieth  Mississippi.  Many  of  my  ablest 
and  most  gallant  field-officers  are  wounded,  several  mortally.  Of 
this  number  are  Colonels  Erwin,  Sixth  Missouri  Infantry,  Moore, 
Forty-third  Mississippi,  and  McLean,  Thirty-seventh  Mississippi; 
Lieutenant-Colonels  Pixler,  Sixteenth  Arkansas,  Hedgespeth,  Sixth 
Missouri  Infantry,  Serrell,  Seventh  Mississippi  Battalion,  Lanier, 
Forty-second  Alabama,  Hobson,  Third  Arkansas  Cavalry,  Mathews, 
Twenty-first  Arkansas,  Cambell,  Fortieth  Mississippi,  and  Boone; 
and  Majors  Senteny,  Second  Missouri  Infantry,  Keevir,  Thirty-eighth 
Mississippi,  Staton,  Thirty-seventh  Alabama,  Timmins,  Second  Texas, 
Jones,  Twenty-first  Arkansas,  Russell,  Third  Louisiana,  and  Yates 
and  McQuiddy,  Third  Missouri  Cavalry.  For  other  casualties  in 
officers  and  men,  I  beg  leave  to  refer  to  lists  inclosed.  I  cannot  close 
this  report  without  recognizing  the  eminent  services  and  valuable 
assistance  of  Brigadier-Generals  Maury,  Hebert  (whose  services  I  re 
gret  to  have  lost  on  the  morning  of  the  4th  by  reason  of  his  illness), 
and  Green,  commanding  divisions.  I  bear  willing  testimony  to  the 
admirable  coolness,  undaunted  courage,  and  military  skill  of" these 
officers,  in  disposing  their  respective  commands,  and  in  executing 
their  orders.  Through  them  I  transmit  to  Brigadier-General  Moore, 
and  acting  Brigadier-Generals  Cabell,  Phiffer,  Gates,  and  Colbert  my 
high  appreciation  of  their  efficient  services  on  the  field. 

Their  skill  in  maneuvering  their  troops,  and  promptness  and  gal 
lantry  in  leading  them  through  the  most  desperate  conflicts,  elicit 
my  highest  admiration.  And  of  my  troops,  as  a  body,  I  can  say  no 
juster  or  more  complimentary  words  than  that  they  have  sustained, 
and  deepened,  and  widened  their  reputation  for  exalted  patriotism 
and  determined  valor.  To  my  personal  staff  I  return  my  thanks  for 
their  promptness  in  the  delivery  of  my  orders,  and  their  gallant 
bearing  on  the  field. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 

STERLING  PRICE,  Major- General. 

MAJOR  M.  M.  KIMMALL, 

Assistant  Adjutant- General,  Army  of  West  Tennessee. 


208  A  SOUTHEEN  EECOED. 


THE   PRESENT    APPEARANCE    OF   THE   BATTLE-FIELD. 

A  recent  explorer  of  this  bloody  battle-field  thus  speaks  of  its 
present  appearance : 

"  Not  the  least  memorable  of  the  '  pitched  battles'  of  the  late  war 
was  that  which  was  fought  in  front  of  this  grand  '  intrenched  camp' 
that  we  call  Corinth,  on  the  3d  and  4th  days  of  October,  1862. 

"  During  the  past  two  days,  a  portion  of  my  sojourn  here  has  been 
spent  as  a  partial  exploration  of  that  part  of  the  battle-field  which 
lies  in  the  north-western  angle  formed  by  the  crossing  of  the  Mem 
phis  and  Charleston,  and  Mobile  and  Ohio  Railroads.  The  sights 
that  I  saw  of  vast  numbers  of  Confederate  '  bones' — whole  skeletons 
and  parts  of  skeletons — lying  exposed,  and  bleaching  on  the  field, 
in  the  bushes,  and  on  the  hill-sides,  under  logs,  and  on  stumps ;  of 
the  neatly-inclosed  and  well-marked  graves  of  the  Federal  soldiers, 
all  buried  at  the  proper  depth ;  and  of  the  forest  trees  in  all  direc 
tions  rent  and  torn  by  shot  and  shell,  and  all  the  '  storm  of  the  furious 
war,'  and  of  many  separate  and  distinct  desperate  conflicts,  hand  to 
hand  and  muzzle — all  the  '  sights,'  I  say,  are  well  worthy  a  brief 
record.  Besides,  I  have  another  object  in  calling  attention  to  the 
battle-field  of  Corinth  apart  from  the  gratification  of  public  curiosity, 
and  that  is,  to  urge  upon  our  people  the  propriety  of  collecting  the 
bones  of  their  dead  brethren  at  some  suitable  spot  near  the  place, 
and  giving  them  a  decent  interment.  It  is  estimated  by  an  intelli 
gent  citizen  of  Corinth  that,  upon  the  two  fields  of  '  Shiloh '  and 
*  Corinth,'  in  the  vicinity,  there  are  not  less  than  12,000  4  Confederate 
dead,'  whose  bones,  for  the  most  part,  are  bleaching  above  the 
ground. 

"  Of  all  the  Confederate  dead  on  this  field,  Colonel  Rogers  is,  I  am 
told,  the  only  one  who  was  properly  buried  deep  enough  to  prevent 
the  rains  from  washing  the  dirt  away  and  exposing  the  bones.  He, 
it  is  said,  was  buried  under  the  immediate  supervision  of  General 
Rosecrans. 

"  In  the  north-western  angle,  formed  by  the  crossing  of  the  rail 
roads,  from  Corinth  out  to  and  beyond  the  outer  works,  three  and  a 
half  miles  distant,  the  whole  of  this  great  battle-ground  is  dotted 
here  and  there — in  some  places  thick  as  meadow  mole-hills — with 
the  graves  of  Federal  and  the  exposed  remains  of  Confederate  dead. 
The  Federal  dead  were  all  neatly  interred  in  the  usual  way,  with 
head  and  foot  boards  in  every  instance,  and  in  most  cases,  I  believe, 
were  inclosed  with  wooden  palings.  The  Confederate  dead,  it 
clearly  appears,  were  merely  covered  on  the  ground  where  they  fell. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  209 

I  saw  but  one  Confederate  tumulus  where  the  bones — generally  the 
skulls — were  not  more  or  less  exposed,  and  scattered  in  all  directions. 
At  the  outer  line  of  intrenchments,  where  a  portion  of  Maury's  Di 
vision  made  the  assault,  I  saw  two  human  bones,  one  pelvis  and 
two  jaw-bones,  lying  on  a  stump,  with  no  trace  of  a  grave  or  tumulus 
nearer  than  fifty  or  a  hundred  yards.  In  front  of  the  outer  breast 
works,  not  far  from  the  same  spot,  were  two  tumuli,  where  six  or 
eight  Confederate  dead  had  been  covered  up  on  the  side  of  a  hill. 
Here  several  skulls,  and  the  feet  of  the  most  of  the  bodies,  had  been 
uncovered  by  the  action  of  the  elements,  and  were  lying  scattered  on 
the  ground,  already  bleached  perfectly  white,  and,  of  course,  rapidly 
crumbling  to  decay.  The  condition  of  these  tumuli  is  a  fair  speci 
men  of  all  the  rest.  In  one  place,  the  bodies  of  two  or  three  Con 
federates  were  placed  by  the  side  of  a  log  (to  save  labor)  and  a  little 
dirt  thrown  upon  them ;  the  dirt  had  all  washed  away,  and  there 
the  skeletons  lie  wholly  exposed  and  uncared  for,  '  like  the  beasts 
that  perish.' " 

Little  dreamed  the  gallant  Price,  when  he  wrote  that  the  silent 
dead  "  would  live  ever  in  the  hearts  of  the  admiring  people  of  the 
government  for  the  establishment  of  which  these  heroic  men  gave 
their  lives,"  that  ere  four  years  had  elapsed  from  the  date  of  that 
fearful  struggle,  such  a  record  would  be  published  as  the  above. 
Among  those  bleaching  bones  lie  all  that  remains  of  those  heroic 
spirits  who,  undaunted,  battled  against  a  powerful  foe,  who  once 
stood  in  all  the  pride  and  glory  of  their  fearless  manhood  among 
the  gallant  men  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry,  as  they  stormed 
the  enemy's  batteries  and  intrenchments.  By  their  side  lie  the  sons 
from  the  far-off  plains  of  Missouri,  and  the  hills  of  Arkansas ;  from 
Mississippi,  and  the  "  Lone  Star  "  State,  martyrs  in  the  same  cause, 
animated  by  the  same  spirit  in  serving  the  country  for  which  they 
sacrificed  their  lives. 


CHAPTER    XXV. 

CAMP   ROGERS. 

WHILE  encamped  at  Holly  Springs,  the  days  of  October  passed 
quietly  away  without  incident  worthy  of  note.  It  was  weeks  before 
the  men  fully  recovered  their  old  elasticity  of  spirits,  and  the  regi 
ment  finally  settled  down  into  the  old  routine  of  a  soldier's  existence. 
On  the  22d  of  October,  orders  were  once  more  received  to  move,  and 
early  on  the  morning  of  the  23d  the  regiment  was  traveling  south 
ward.  They  were  not  overburdened  with  packs,  as  both  clothing 
and  blankets  were  scant.  After  proceeding  a  few  miles  from  Holly 
Springs,  the  regiment  was  encamped  at  a  spot  known  as  Camp  Rog 
ers.  Here  a  line  of  hills  dip  into  the  valley  extending  southward 
from  Holly  Springs.  The  camp  was  a  pleasant  one,  on  the  hills, 
amid  the  shadows  of  large  oak-trees.  In  front  of  it  were  wide  ex 
tended  fields,  formerly  cultivated  in  cotton,  now  covered  with  corn 
stubble.  In  the  rear,  westward,  was  a  cotton-gin,  and  another  un 
cultivated  field,  on  the  surface  of  the  range  of  hills  here  quite  level, 
and  used  as  a  drill  ground.  At  this  camp  the  regiment  was  assigned 
to  the  Third  Brigade,  Second  Division,  of  General  Maury's  troops. 
The  first  night  of  their  arrival  was  inaugurated  by  a  heavy  white 
frost,  followed  by  bitter  cold  weather,  and  snow  on  the  afternoon  of 
the  25th.  The  men  suffered  very  much,  being  scantily  supplied  with 
clothing,  and  insufficiently  sheltered,  their  chief  protection  consisting 
of  tent  flies.  Fortunately  their  propensity  for  foraging,  together 
with  large  quantities  of  sweet  potatoes  brought  into  camp,  in  ad 
dition  to  their  regular  rations,  kept  them  well  supplied  with  pro 
visions,  an  offset  to  their  other  wants.  Hence  they  gathered  in 
groups  around  their  camp  fires,  roasted  potatoes  in  the  ashes,  and 
amused  themselves  by  indulging  in  soldiers'  rough  witticisms  with 
the  Thirty-sixth  Mississippi,  encamped  on  their  left.  This  regiment 
was  commanded  by  Colonel  Witherspoon,  whom  the  boys  quickly 
nick-named  "  Pewterspoon,"  for  reasons  best  known  to  themselves. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  211 

There  was  the  usual  discipline  here,  drills,  police,  etc.,  varied  by  an 
occasional  scout  after  "  Bear,"  and  chickens,  resulting  usually  in 
complete  success,  or  songs  at  night  while  gathered  around  the  camp 
fires. 

On  the  1st  day  of  November  there  was  a  division  review,  and  the 
men  were  in  high  spirits  once  more.  This  was  followed  by  a  general 
review  on  the  3d,  at  which  were  present  large  numbers  of  ladies 
from  Holly  Springs  and  the  surrounding  country ;  also,  Generals 
Van  Dorn,  Price,  Maury,  Bowen,  Green  and  others.  The  day  was 
clear  and  cold.  The  imposing  array  of  men,  with  their  guns  glitter 
ing  in  the  cold  November  sunlight,  the  assembly  of  fair  ladies,  the 
galaxy  of  dashing  and  distinguished  officers,  formed  a  brilliant  and 
imposing  spectacle.  It  was  a  combination  of  the  beauty  and  chivalry 
of  the  country.  Far  away  stretched  the  valley,  hemmed  in  on  one 
side  by  the  undulating  hills,  and  on  the  other  by  a  dark  line  of 
forest,  whose  Autumn  foliage  had  assumed  the  dark-brown  hue  of 
Winter's  coloring.  The  occasion,  display  and  scenery  combined, 
made  up  a  scene  of  warlike  aspect,  such  as  was  seldom  witnessed 
even  in  those  days  of  bloodshed  and  strife. 

On  the  5th,  the  sun  was  obscured  by  heavy  clouds ;  the  atmos 
phere  was  hazy  and  cool.  Orders  were  issued  to  cook  three  days' 
rations  and  be  prepared  to  move.  The  men  packed  and  shouldered 
their  knapsacks,  and  loaded  the  wagons  in  anticipation  of  an  early 
move.  They  were  in  uproarious  good  humor,  pelting  each  other 
and  the  Mississippians  with  sweet  potatoes,  of  which  they  had  large 
quantities.  The  regiment  was  moved  a  short  distance  from  the 
camp  and  halted.  The  valley  was  filled  with  long  trains  of  wagons 
moving  rapidly  southward,  and  the  whole  army  was  in  motion  amid 
great  excitement.  The  enemy  were  evidently  on  the  advance,  in  too 
powerful  force  to  be  successfully  resisted. 

The  Texan s  attached  to  our  brigade  had  been  promised  the  return 
of  their  horses,  which  were  only  a  few  miles  distant ;  and,  when 
there  seemed  a  probability  of  moving  without  them,  they  positively 
and  most  determinedly  refused  to  march.  They  were  addressed  by 
General  Maury  and  Colonel  Whitfield,  in  stirring  speeches,  all  in 
vain.  Have  their  rights  they  would,  in  spite  of  the  whole  army  and 
all  its  commanders.  The  consequence  was  their  horses  were  speedily 
hurried  up  and  delivered  to  their  owners.  The  scene  that  ensued 
beggared  description.  Mounting,  they  dashed  off  at  full  speed,  in 
squads  and  singly,  over  ditches,  fences  and  every  obstacle,  into  the 
valley,  yelling  like  demons  released  from  the  bottomless  pit.  In  the 
saddle  once  more,  these  dashing  Texans  felt  at  home,  and  exhibited 


212  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

tlieir  joy  in  all  manner  of  extravagant  performances.  Their  ardor 
soon  cooled  down,  and  they  formed  and  left  for  the  rear  to  watch 
the  foe.  The  Louisiana  Regiment  were  sorry  to  lose  these  gallant 
comrades,  who  had  fought  with  them  through  some  of  the  bloodiest 
battles,  exhibiting  a  dashing  bravery  as  infantry  worthy  the  laurels 
which  they  had  gained  in  the  cavalry  service.  Ere  the  day  passed 
away,  the  wind  rose  almost  to  a  gale,  filling  the  air  with  dust  and 
smoke,  completely  blinding  and  almost  suffocating  the  troops.  Heavy, 
dark  and  lowering  clouds,  like  a  funeral-pall,  hung  over  the  earth, 
which  made  the  scene  a  gloomy  and  wintry  one.  That  night  the 
men  slept  in  Camp  Rogers,  around  the  fires,  and  in  pens  built  of 
brush  and  rails,  on  cotton  procured  from  the  gin  near  by.  They  suf 
fered  intensely,  however,  from  the  cold,  being  without  blankets, 
which  had  been  packed  in  the  wagons  and  sent  away. 

The  Mississippians  had  taken  possession  of  the  cotton-gin,  and 
numbers  of  them  were  snugly  ensconsed  in  these  comfortable  quarters 
amid  the  cotton.  Some  of  the  Third  Regiment  learned  the  fact, 
and  a  guard  was  formed,  properly  officered,  apparently,  who  pro 
ceeded  to  the  gin  and  authoritatively  ordered  the  Mississippians  out 
of  the  building,  saying  they  had  been  sent  there  by  the  General  to 
protect  the  cotton  and  place.  The  orders  were  obeyed.  It  is  need 
less  to  say  that  a  large  number  of  the  Louisianians  enjoyed  an  ex 
cellent  sleep  that  night,  the  guard  being  the  suggestion  of  some 
sharp-witted  privates,  and  a  ruse  to  oust  the  Mississippians.  So 
much  for  the  experience  of  veterans. 

The  next  day,  November  6,  the  regiment  were  out  on  the  parade- 
ground,  fully  armed  and  equipped,  with  their  knapsacks  on  their 
backs,  actually  going  through  the  evolutions  of  drill.  Artillery  and 
infantry  were  passing,  and  soon  the  slumbering  echoes  of  the  valley 
were  awakened  by  the  dull,  heavy  roar  of  artillery,  far  away  toward 
Holly  Springs.  Still  the  drill  went  on  as  if  no  enemy  was  pressing 
the  rear-guard  of  the  army  now  in  rapid  retreat.  It  was,  indeed,  a 
strange  spectacle.  They  were  finally  marched  back  to  camp  for  in 
spection.  Guns  were  cleaned  out,  and  there  was  quite  a  fusillade  as 
the  men  tested  their  cleanliness.  This  excited  the  ire  of  Colonel 
Witherspoon,  who  sent  orders  for  it  to  be  stopped.  The  Louisianians 
paid  no  attention  to  the  order.  They  expected  to  fight  soon,  and 
were  determined  to  be  thoroughly  and  properly  prepared.  Soon 
an  aid-de-camp  arrived  at  regimental  headquarters  with  the  order 
that,  if  the  firing  was  not  stopped,  Colonel  Witherspoon  would  bring 
his  regiment  to  the  spot  and  fire  into  the  men.  This  message  spread 
like  wild-fire  through  camp,  the  men  tightened  their  belts,  brought 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  213 

their  cartouche  and  capboxes  to  their  proper  places  for  service, 
threw  off  their  knapsacks,  at  the  same  time  shouting  all  kinds  of 
messages  to  the  aid,  such  as  "  Tell  Colonel  Pewterspoon  to  send  his 
regiment  down  here  and  we  will  give  them  a  turn.  Hav'n't  got  many 
cartridges,  and  just  as  leave  expend  them,  in  fighting  Mississippians 
as  the  Yankees."  The  men  were  actually  exasperated,  in  the  fullest 
signification  of  the  word.  They  had  been  touched  on  their  tenderest 
point— their  honor.  Whether  Colonel  Witherspoon  actually  sent  this 
order  was  never  clearly  ascertained  ;  but  that  one  of  his  aids  did,  un 
thinkingly,  deliver  this  message  to  Major  Richards,  then  in  command 
of  the  regiment,  is  an  incontrovertible  fact.  This  was  an  unfortu 
nate  circumstance,  as  it  created  an  ill-feeling  between  the  regiment 
and  the  remainder  of  the  brigade  which  could  never  be  eradicated. 
Colonel  Witherspoon  showed  himself  to  be  a  chivalrous  gentleman, 
an  efficient  and  brave  officer  on  numerous  occasions. 

On  the  retreat  to  Abbeville,  General  Hebert  came  into  the  camp, 
and  was  immediately  surrounded  by  the  men,  who  complained  bit 
terly  that  they  were  put  in  a  conscript  brigade.  The  General  re 
plied  :  "  Never  mind,  my  men  ;  never  mind.  You  will  soon  make 
good  soldiers  of  them  all."  The  compliment  thus  delicately  paid 
to  the  efficiency  of  the  regiment  did  not  soothe  their  irritated  and 
discontented  feeelings. 

The  brigade,  at  this  time,  was  composed  of  the  Thirty-sixth, 
Thirty-seventh,  Thirty-eighth,  Fortieth  and  Forty-third  Mississippi — 
regiments  organized  under  the  Conscript  Act.  The  Third  Louis- 
ianians  did  not  take  into  consideration  that,  although  volunteers 
and  disciplined  veterans,  they  had  reorganized  under  the  same  act 
of  the  Confederate  States. 

These  items  are  not  pleasant  records,  yet  adherence  to  truthfulness 
compels  their  insertion,  as  a  portion  of  the  actual  occurrences  con 
nected  with  the  regiment. 

The  army  retreated  steadily  southward  until  it  reached  Abbeville, 
a  short  distance  south  of  the  Tallahatchie,  on  the  Mississippi  Central 
Railroad.  Here  the  regiment  encamped  on  a  level  plat  of  ground 
east  of  the  railroad,  between  the  Tallahatchie  and  Abbeville.  The 
camp  was  beautifully  shaded  by  oak-trees. 


CHAPTER    XXVI. 

ON  the  14th  of  November,  the  regiment  was  suddenly  ordered  to 
the  breastworks.  These  fortifications  were  solidly-constructed  earth 
works,  on  the  north  side  of  the  Tallahatchie,  near  where  the  railroad 
crossed  the  stream,  also,  spanned  by  a  rough  bridge.  They  com 
manded  a  good  view  of  the  country  ;  stretching  away  in  front  of 
them,  a  level  plain  of  uncultivated  cotton-fields.  Confined  in  these 
works,  the  men  passed  the  time  as  best  they  could.  They  were  full 
of  life  and  mischief.  Their  provisions  were  daily  cooked  in  camp, 
and  carried  to  them  by  details  made  for  this  purpose. 

On  the  16th  a  countryman  came  to  the  bridge  with  a  drove  of  fine, 
fat  hogs,  which  seemed  adverse  to  crossing.  The  7cind  and  obliging 
Louisianians  eagerly  volunteered  to  aid  him.  By  some  unaccountable 
means  numbers  of  the  swine  were  driven  into  the  water,  and,  swim 
ming  down  stream,  never  were  found.  Perhaps  the  boys  did  not 
relish  a  good  supper  of  u  bear"  meat  that  night ! 

On  the  17th,  the  regiment  returned  to  camp,  the  weather  being 
cold  and  stormy,  continuing  for  two  days,  and  then  cleared  off,  with 
a  biting  wind  from  the  north-west.  The  men  frolicked,  danced, 
sang  and  gambled  at  night,  drilled  during  the  day,  and  performed 
the  duties  of  a  regular  camp-life  while  waiting  for  the  appearance 
of  the  enemy.  Lieutenant  Washburn,  taken  prisoner  at  luka,  re 
turned  again  to  the  regiment  at  this  place,  and  resumed  his  duties 
as  Adjutant. 

Major  Tunnard  once  more  visited  the  regiment  at  Abbeville  on 
the  25th,  and  was  joyfully  welcomed.  On  this  day  there  was  a 
review  of  General  Maury's  Division,  making  a  very  creditable  dis 
play.  The  days  continued  clear  and  cold,  infusing  an  unusual 
quantity  of  activity  and  life  into  the  men,  who  never  grew  weary 
in  attempting  some  kind  of  mischief.  The  morning  bugle  was 
greeted  with  hoots,  yells,  and  cries  of  every  description,  at  last  be 
coming  so  furious  that  a  whole  regiment  was  ordered  on  drill  at  day 
light  for  indulging  in  this  noisy  pastime.  The  example  had  a  sal 
utary  effect  on  the  rest  of  the  troops. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  215 

On  the  night  of  the  28th,  at  10  o'clock  p.  M.,  the  regiment  was 
again  suddenly  ordered  out  to  the  breastworks. 

The  next  day  three  days'  rations  were  cooked,  all  extra  baggage 
ordered  to  be  sent  off,  and  the  trains  prepared  to  move.  The  roar 
of  artillery  proclaimed  the  approach  of  the  enemy  and  heavy 
skirmishing  in  the  vicinity  of  Waterford.  In  this  skirmish  several 
men  were  wounded,  a  piece  of  artillery  dismounted,  but  not  lost,  as 
the  brave  troops  tied  a  rope  around  it,  and,  hitching  in  a  team  of 
horses,  triumphantly  dragged  it  from  the  field  in  safety.  The  army 
was  compelled  to  abandon  the  intrenchments,  and  the  first  day  of 
the  winter  months  found  them  again  retreating  along  the  line  of 
railroad,  in  a  cold  and  drenching  storm,  and  over  roads  knee-deep 
in  mud  and  mire.  The  enemy  pursued  closely  and  persistently, 
making  frequent  dashes  upon  the  rear-guard. 

In  Oxford,  the  scene  almost  beggared  description.  Long  columns 
of  troops,  tired,  wet  and  soiled,  poured  through  the  town,  accom 
panied  by  carriages,  buggies,  and  even  carts,  filled  with  terror- 
stricken,  delicate  ladies — whole  families  carrying  with  them  their 
household  goods  and  negroes.  The  scene  was  one  of  indescribable 
confusion  and  excitement — one  of  those  gloomy  pictures  of  war  so 
distressing  in  all  its  circumstances. 

The  retreat  was  continued  in  the  midst  of  a  furious  rain-storm, 
the  roads  being  in  a  terrible  condition,  on  through  Water  Yalley, 
Spring  Yalley,  Coffeeville,  and  to  Grenada. 

On  the  3d,  as  the  trains  were  pushing  rapidly  forward,  the  thun 
der  of  artillery  was  heard  directly  west  of  the  retreating  army  It 
seems  that  the  enemy  were  attempting  to  reach  Grenada  in  advance 
of  the  Confederate  army,  by  the  way  of  the  Mississippi  and  Ten 
nessee  Railroad,  which  forms  a  junction  with  the  Mississippi  Central  at 
Grenada,  in  order  to  destroy  the  trains,  and  cut  the  railroad  in  the 
front  of  the  retreating  army.  They  were  met,  however,  at  Oakland 
by  the  fearless  and  gallant  Texans,  several  regiments  of  whom  dis 
mounted  and  acted  as  infantry,  much  to  the  astonishment  of  the 
foe.  This  skirmish  was  a  severe  one,  resulting  in  the  enemy  finally 
withdrawing  their  troops,  with  the  loss  of  many  men  and  two 
pieces  of  artillery.  On  the  same  day  there  was  a  brisk  skirmish  at 
Oxford,  and  a  precipitate  retreat  from  that  place,  many  of  the  men 
having  very  narrow  escapes  from  capture  by  the  Yankees,  who  made 
a  gallant  dash  into  the  town  on  the  very  heels  of  our  army.  Thus 
the  retreating  columns  retrograded,  day  after  day,  in  the  drenching 
rain,  amid  the  roar  of  artillery  and  unprecedented  sufferings. 

On  the  5th,  Rust's  Brigade,  formed  and  executed  a  well-planned 


216  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

ambuscade,  by  which  the  Federals  were  severely  punished  for  their 
temerity  in  pushing  too  closely  the  retreating  columns. 

On  the  night  of  December  5,  the  regiment  encamped  at  Grenada. 
The  weather  suddenly  became  intensely  cold,  and,  the  morning  of 
the  6th,  frost  and  ice  were  plentiful.  Numbers  of  the  men,  ex 
hausted  and  worn  out  with  their  constant  marching,  exposed  to  such 
inclement  weather,  were  sick — some  of  them  dangerously  so,  from 
typhoid  fever  and  pneumonia.  This  retreat  planted  the  seeds 
of  disease  in  many  a  noble  form,  resulting  in  their  sinking  into 
early  graves. 

On  the  7th,  the  regiment  was  encamped  some  distance  west  of 
Grenada,  endeavoring  to  recuperate  from  their  physical  prostration. 

On  the  17th,  moved  camp  once  more  to  the  vicinity  of  Grenada. 

On  the  23d,  President  Davis  and  General  Johnston  arrived  at 
Grenada,  creating  many  surmises  and  speculations  as  to  the  object 
of  their  visit  at  this  time.  Grenada  was  well  fortified  along  the 
Tuscahoma  and  Yallabusha  rivers,  and  a  warm  reception  prepared 
for  the  foe. 

On  the  25th,  there  was  a  grand  and  imposing  review  at  Grenada, 
at  which  were  present  President  Davis,  General  Johnston,  and  other 
celebrities.  News  reached  the  army,  also,  of  General  Van  Dorn's 
successful  attack  on  Holly  Springs,  capturing  1,600  Federals,  and 
$1,500,000  worth  of  stores  of  every  description. 

On  the  28th,  the  regiment  broke  up  camp,  and  left  for  Vicksburg. 
This  had  now  become  the  great  theatre  of  action,  and  desperate  at 
tempts  were  being  made  to  capture  this  stronghold,  in  order  to  open 
the  navigation  of  the  Mississippi  River.  In  December,  the  enemy 
made  a  landing,  and  stormed  the  breastworks  commanding  the 
Yazoo  valley  north  of  Vicksburg.  They  were  terribly  defeated  by 
the  Twenty-eighth  Louisiana  Regiment.  Here  Major  Humble,  for 
merly  a  lieutenant  of  Company  I,  Third  Louisiana,  lost  his  life.  He 
was  a  fearless  and  gallant  officer. 


CHAPTER    XXVII. 

SNYDER'S  MILLS. 

THE  regiment  proceeded  across  the  country  to  Yazoo  City.  Their 
reception  at  this  place  was  very  enthusiastic,  especially  by  the  ladies, 
who  seemed  untiring  in  their  endeavors  to  supply  the  wants  of  the 
men.  Here  they  embarked  on  boats,  and  proceeded  to  Snyder's  Mills, 
on  the  Yazoo  River.  During  this  period  the  men  were  without  their 
baggage,  and  very  few  had  blankets,  having  left  their  knapsacks, 
tents,  and  bundles  at  Varden,  thus  enduring  the  weary  march  ex 
posed,  without  shelter,  to  the  sudden  changes  of  the  variable  wintry 
weather. 

After  their  first  failure  in  the  attempt  to  capture  Vicksburg,  the 
Federals  had  suddenly  decamped,  only  to  return  once  more  in  the 
latter  part  of  January  to  renew  the  attack.  From  Vicksburg  to 
Snyder's  Mills  is  a  line  of  abrupt  hills,  commanding  the  Yazoo  valley, 
which  had  been  fortified  along  the  whole  distance,  some  twelve 
miles.  At  Snyder's  Mills  the  Yazoo  strikes  the  bluff,  and  then  turns 
almost  abruptly  westward  for  some  distance,  ere  flowing  southward. 
On  this  bluif  were  batteries  of  heavy  guns  -in  close  proximity  to  the 
river,  manned  by  the  Twenty-second  Louisiana.  Just  above  these 
formidable  and  frowning  batteries  was  a  solidly-constructed  raft  of 
huge  logs,  completely  blockading  the  stream.  Thus  this  position, 
naturally  formidable,  was  rendered  doubly  strong  by  the  labor  and 
ingenuity  of  man.  The  country  back  of  this  line  of  bluffs  is  a  series 
of  high  hills,  intersected  by  deep  and  narrow  ravines,  all  covered 
with  a  dense  undergrowth  of  cane,  and  heavily  timbered,  from  whose 
huge  branches  drooped  the  pendent  moss,  and  whose  trunks  were 
covered  with  clinging  vines,  all  forming  the  luxuriant  growth  of 
nature  peculiar  only  to  a  tropical  clime.  Almost  immediately  in  the 
rear  of  the  batteries  commanding  the  Yazoo  River,  was  the  encamp 
ment  of  the  regiment.  In  the  absence  of  tents,  the  men  excavated 
houses  on  the  abrupt  hill-sides,  forming  the  roofs  of  rough  shingles, 
10 


218  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

firmly  supported  by  posts— erecting,  in  fact,  those  rude  shelters  with 
a  celerity  truly  astonishing,  and  for  which  soldiers  are  proverbially 
famed.  The  regiment  had  scarcely  reached  Snyder's  Bluff,  ere  they 
were  ordered  into  the  intrenchments,  in  anticipation  of  an  expected 
attack.  Defending,  as  they  were,  the  most  distant  northern  point 
of  the  fortification  that  protected  Vicksburg,  they  were  nerved  to  a 
determination  which  they  had  never  before  experienced,  and,  not 
withstanding  the  need  of  many  conveniences  to  make  their  position 
comfortable,  were  full  of  life  and  fun.  The  stake  now  being  played 
for  was  a  tremendous  one,  being  the  possession  of  the  Mississippi 
River,  involving  the  destiny  of  its  whole  valley,  and  the  vital  life 
and  safety  of  the  country.  This  occurred  as  another  New  Year  be 
gan  its  cycle,  the  regiment  reaching  Snyder's  Bluff  on  the  2d  day  of 
January,  1863. 

The  month  of  January  passed  away  with  little  to  attract  atttJi/rion 
or  create  any  serious  apprehension  of  an  early  attack  from  the  foe, 
who  seemed  to  have  concentrated  all  their  energy  and  ingenuity  in 
an  attempt  to  cut  a  canal  across  the  elbow  of  land  directly  in  front 
of  Vicksburg,  at  which  point  the  river  makes  an  abrupt  turn,  flow 
ing  almost  north-east  until  it  strikes  the  bluff  upon  which  Vicksburg 
is  situated,  and  then  turns  abruptly  south,  inclining  a  little  west 
ward.  The  object  of  the  enemy  was  to  make  the  canal  across  the 
neck  of  land,  formed  by  the  peculiar  course  of  the  stream,  large 
enough  to  float  their  steamers  through,  thus  completely  isolating 
Vicksburg,  and  obviating  the  necessity  of  running  the  gauntlet  of 
the  heavy  batteries  crowning  the  hill-sides  and  lining  the  banks. 

On  the  28th  of  January,  the  enemy's  boats  came  into  the  Yazoo, 
but  without  approaching  our  point  of  defense.  At  this  time,  the 
heavy  roar  of  guns  in  the  direction  of  Vicksburg  was  a  daily  occur 
rence,  the  batteries  either  shelling  the  workmen  on  the  canal,  or  en 
gaging  in  a  lively  artillery  duel  with  some  formidable  iron-clad, 
when  venturing  within  range  of  the  guns  on  a  reconnoitering  expe 
dition.  The  regiment  was  almost  constantly  kept  under  orders,  and 
thoroughly  prepared  to  meet  the  foe  at  any  moment. 

On  the  llth,  there  was  a  general  review  of  the  troops  by  Major- 
General  Maury,  and  the  regiment  occupied  a  position  in  the  line  of 
intrenchments.  General  Maury  had  become  a  great  favorite  with 
the  men,  who  had  every  confidence  in  his  ability  and  power  to  suc 
cessfully  defend  the  point  committed  to  his  charge. 

On  the  13th,  there  was  an  election  in  the  various  companies  to  fill 
vacancies,  occasioned  by  the  resignations  and  deaths  of  several  offi 
cers,  resulting  in  the  choice  of  the  following  3d  Junior  Lieutenants : 


THIED   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  219 

Thomas  Gourrier,  Company  A ;  W.  Middlebrook,  Company  C ;  - 
Thomas,  Company  E. 

On  the  13th,  Captain  Charles  A.  Brusle  once  more  visited  the  regi 
ment.  He  was  appointed  on  General  Hebert's  staff,  by  the  following 
general  order : 

General  Orders,  )  HEAD-QUARTERS,  SNYDEK'S  MILLS,  J 

No.  18.         \  February  24.th,  1863.  f 

"  Extract." 

II.  Charles  A.  Brusle,  late  a  captain  of  the  Third  Regiment  Louis 
iana  Infantry,  has  been  appointed  Aid-de-camp,  with  the  rank  of 
first  lieutenant,  to  date  from  February  7th,  1863.  He  will  be  obeyed 
and  respected  accordingly. 

By  order  of  Brigadier-General  Hebert. 

W.  D.  HARDEMAN,  A.  A.  G. 

Thus,  after  having  resigned  from  the  Confederate  service  on  ac 
count  of  physical  inability  to  stand  the  severities  of  a  soldier's  ex 
istence,  Captain  Brusle  once  more  returned  to  the  army,  and  the 
vicinity  of  his  old  company  and  regiment. 

On  the  18th,  there  was  quite  an  excitement  in  the  regiment,  created 
by  the  report  that  a  Yankee  gun-boat  had  succeeded  in  reaching  the 
Yazoo  above,  by  coming  through  what  is  known  as  the  "Pass." 
Volunteers  were  called  for  to  go  on  a  boat,  protected  with  cotton, 
and  capture  the  audacious  visitor  by  boarding.  Nearly  the  whole 
regiment  volunteered,  but  only  sixty  were  chosen,  under  the  com 
mand  of  Captain  H.  H.  Gentles,  and  Lieutenant  Cy.  Hedrick.  Of 
this  number  only  fourteen  were  finally  selected  for  the  expedition,  in 
order  to  give  other  regiments  a  chance  to  share  in  the  anticipated 
fight.  The  report  proved  false,  and  the  whole  expedition  returned 
without  having  found  the  enemy.  At  this  time  the  batteries  were 
continually  bellowing  forth  their  hoarse  thunder  at  Vicksburg,  and 
events  of  thrilling  interest  and  excitement  were  occurring. 

On  the  22d,  a  national  salute  was  fired  by  the  batteries  in  honor 
of  the  natal  day  of  George  Washington.  The  weather  was  very 
disagreeable,  raining  almost  continually,  and  the  rations  were  very 
poor ;  the  men  scantily  clothed,  after  their  numerous  retreats  and 
shortening  baggage  on  the  road. 

On  the  25th,  the  regiment  was  ordered  out  on  picket,  in  the  midst 
of  a  heavy  rain. 

March,  generally  so  stormy,  opened  with  a  bright  and  smiling  sky, 
and  an  invigorating,  refreshing  atmosphere.  The  men  were  full  of 


220  A   SOUTHERN   RECOED. 

life,  and  passed  their  evenings  in  dancing,  interspersed  with  music, 
both  vocal  and  instrumental.  Their  new  situation  seemed  to  agree 
with  them  most  wonderfully.  On  the  6th,  the  whole  brigade  attend 
ed  the  execution  of  a  deserter  from  the  First  Louisiana  Heavy  Artil 
lery,  who  had  been  captured  in  Federal  uniform.  His  bearing  was 
firm,  and  he  met  his  death  most  courageously. 

Some  time  in  the  middle  of  March,  the  enemy  attempted  to  reach 
Yazoo  City  from  above,  but  were  most  signally  repulsed  at  Fort 
Pemberton.  On  the  20th,  heavy  and  rapid  firing  above  our  position 
drew  numbers  of  the  men  to  their  eyeries  on  the  hill-tops  command 
ing  a  view  of  the  Yazoo  valley.  The  cannonading,  rapid  and  heavy, 
was  in  a  north-westerly  direction,  and  a  cloud  of  white  smoke  could 
be  distinctly  seen  to  rise  into  the  clear  morning  air,  from  the  dark 
bosom  of  the  trees.  The  enemy  were  attempting  to  force  a  passage 
into  the  Yazoo  through  the  Sunflower,  but  were  gallantly  met  and 
most  signally  repulsed  by  Featherstoue's  Brigade. 

The  regiment  received  a  new  uniform,  which  they  were  ordered  to 
take,  much  against  their  expressed  wishes.  The  material  was  very 
coarse,  white  jeans,  "  Nolens  volens."  The  uniforms  were  dis 
tributed  to  the  men,  few  of  whom  would  wear  them,  unless  under 
compulsion,  by  some  special  order.  On  the  22d,  orders  were  issued 
to  cook  three  days'  rations,  and  be  prepared  to  move  ere  daylight  the 
succeeding  morning.  The  weather  was  gloomy  and  rainy,  the  roads 
in  a  terrible  condition.  Some  of  the  men  suggested  the  propriety 
of  wearing  the  new  white  uniforms  on  the  approaching  expedition, 
which,  it  was  known,  would  be  among  the  swamps  of  the  Yazoo 
valley.  The  suggestion  was  almost  universally  adopted,  affording  a 
rare  opportunity  to  give  the  new  clothes  a  thorough  initiation  into 
the  mysteries  of  a  soldier's  life.  Thus  the  regiment  assembled  the 
next  morning  arrayed  as  if  for  a  summer's  day  festival.  The  rain 
was  falling  steadily,  and  the  roads  were  deep  with  mud,  as  they 
began  the  march  towards  Hayne's  Bluff,  a  short  distance  above 
Snyder's  Mills,  and  the  points  where  the  steamboats  landed.  This 
place  was  also  fortified,  and  the  river  protected  above  by  batteries 
of  heavy  siege-guns,  commanded  by  Captain  John  Lumon.  The 
men  were  in  high  spirits.  The  expedition  was  commanded  by 
Brigadier-General  S.  D.  Lee.  On  the  night  of  the  23d,  the  regiment 
slept  on  board  the  steamer  Peytona,  and  the  next  morning  were 
transferred  to  a  very  small,  side- wheel  boat,  called  the  Dew  Drop, 
not  a  misnomer  by  any  means.  On  arriving  at  the  mouth  of  Deer 
Creek,  the  expedition  was  visited  by  a  tremendous  storm  of  wind 
and  rain,  compelling  our  little  craft  to  seek  shelter  amid  the  over- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  221 

hanging  branches  of  the  trees  which  drooped  over  the  stream.  The 
storm,  with  its  accompanying  hurricane,  soon  passed  away,  and  the 
expedition  proceeded  on  its  way.  The  water  was  very  high,  and 
the  flood  covered  the  whole  expanse  of  the  country,  with  only  here 
and  there  a  patch  of  land  visible,  like  some  oasis  in  the  great,  sandy 
desert.  What  an  expedition  this  was,  comprising  a  perfect  fleet  of 
flats,  flat-boats,  skiffs,  canoes,  and  every  conceivable  small  floating 
craft.  The  men  were  wild  with  excitement  and  fun,  and  made  the 
swamps  re-echo  with  their  shouts  and  laughter.  They  preceded  the 
little  steamer  in  their  flotilla  of  small  craft,  cutting  down  trees,  whose 
interpolated  branches  obstructed  the  passage.  Arrived  at  Mr.  Wil 
son's,  on  Deer  Creek,  at  12  o'clock  p.  M.,  on  March  25th,  where  the 
regiment  disembarked  and  sought  rest  on  the  low,  marshy  ground, 
in  the  fence  corners,  and  on  some  old  timbers  of  a  defunct  flat-boat. 

The  men  were  immediately  detailed  en  masse  to  construct  earth 
works  and  obstruct  the  river.  They  labored  with  a  hearty  good 
will  and  energy  truly  commendable,  in  the  water  and  mud.  General 
Lee  was  present  in  person  to  superintend  the  construction  of  the 
works,  and  was  not  afraid  to  share  the  severe  toil.  His  actions  and 
manner,  so  pleasant  and  affable,  soon  won  for  him  the  deep  admira 
tion  and  heartfelt  esteem  of  the  whole  regiment.  If  he  had  orders 
to  give,  he  delivered  them  in  person.  No  neatly-dressed  aids-de 
camp,  with  their  foppish  airs  and  tones  of  authority,  were  deemed 
necessary  to  carry  instructions.  We  distinctly  remember  the  appear 
ance  of  General  Lee,  as  he  stood  conversing  with  Colonel  Russell,  on 
the  deck  of  the  Dew  Drop,  as  the  boat  steamed  slowly  along  Deer 
Creek.  A  huge,  rough  overcoat  enveloped  his  form,  below  the  knees, 
pants  thrust  carelessly  into  his  high,  military  boot-tops,  while  his 
fine,  manly  features  lighted  up  with  smiles  beneath  his  slouched 
hat  as  he  watched  the  hilarity  and  mischief  among  the  men  in  the 
boats,  remarking  as  he  did  so,  "  Colonel,  your  men  seem  to  be  full 
of  life."  General  Lee  was  always  sincerely  respected  by  all  who 
served  under  him,  as  he  was  thoroughly  practical  in  all  he  did,  and 
never  required  what  he  would  be  unwilling  to  perform  himself.  The 
Twenty-second  and  Twenty-eighth  Louisiana  Infantry  joined  the 
Third  Regiment  in  their  labors  and  hardships.  Details  were  daily 
made  from  the  regiment,  who  proceeded  to  Snyder's  Mills  in  skiffs, 
and  transported  all  the  provisions  thence  to  the  scene  of  operations. 
It  was  both  a  dangerous  and  laborious  undertaking. 

The  boats  of  the  detail  generally  proceeded  across  the  country, 
through  lanes  and  along  roads,  which  considerably  shortened  the 
distance  to  camp.  Often  they  were  compelled  to  get  out  of  the 


222  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

boats  and  push  them  by  main  strength  along  the  rapid  streams  and 
over  shallow  places.  On  the  27th,  one  of  these  expeditions  was 
proceeding  up  the  Yazoo,  with  their  boats  loaded  nearly  to  the  gun 
nels  with  provisions.  The  wind  was  very  high,  almost  a  gale,  and 
the  river  was  very  rough.  In  attempting  to  cross  it,  the  boats  ship 
ped  large  quantities  of  water,  threatening  destruction  to  their  loads 
and  a  thorough  ducking  to  the  crews.  It  was  something  amusing 
to  witness  the  rapidity  with  which  the  men  stripped  off  their  cloth 
ing  for  a  swim,  although  the  situation  was  so  perilous.  The  journey, 
fortunately,  was  made  in  safety.  On  one  occasion  the  Commissary 
Sergeant  was  proceeding  to  the  landing  with  a  wagon  load  of  pro 
visions.  General  Hebert  was  standing,  bareheaded,  looking  over 
the  gate  in  front  of  his  quarters,  close  to  the  roadside,  when  he 
observed  the  wagon.  Calling  the  sergeant,  the  following  colloquy 
occurred : 

"  What  have  you  in  that  wagon  ?" 

"  Provisions,  General,  for  the  regiment." 

"  How  many  day's  rations  ?" 

"  Two,  sir." 

"  How  are  you  going  to  get  them  there  ?" 

"  I  have  two  skiffs  at  the  landing." 

"  You  cannot  carry  them  in  those.     You'll  sink  the  boats." 

"Oh,  no,  General ;  I  have  made  the  trip  before ;  besides — " 

"  Never  mind ;  go  along,  my  man ;  go  along,"  and  the  sergeant 
was  dismissed  with  a  dignified  wave  of  the  hand,  as  the  General 
pointed  up  the  road,  and  resumed  his  journey,  wondering  what 
object  the  General  had  in  view  in  his  scrutinizing  questioning.  Suf 
fice  it  to  say  that  the  sergeant's  understanding  was  never  enlightened. 

The  enemy  abandoned  their  attempt  to  penetrate  to  the  Yazoo  by 
the  way  of  Sunflower  and  Deer  Creeks,  doubtless  considering  it  a 
perilous  undertaking,  in  view  of  the  stern  and  desperate  resistance 
which  they  would  meet  in  every  foot  of  their  advance. 

On  the  28th,  the  regiment  was  ordered  to  return  to  camp  ;  so, 
boarding  their  numerous  crafts,  they  once  more  moved  'down  the 
creek,  varying  the  monotony  of  the  journey  with  numerous  races, 
resulting  in  much  amusement  and  excitement.  As  they  passed 
General  Robert's  quarters,  at  Snyder's  Mills,  each  company  saluted 
the  General  with  loud  and  prolonged  cheers,  evincing  their  good 
feeling  for  their  old  commander.  The  compliment  was  pleasantly 
and  gracefully  acknowledged. 

The  regiment  reached  camp  sadly  soiled  in  their  external  appear 
ance,  only  to  find  that  some  persons  unknown  had  "  out-IIeroded 


THIRD  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  223 

Herod"  himself,  and  their  tents  had  taken  legs  and  walked  off  dur 
ing  their  absence.  Verily  there  was  much  profane  language  used 
when  the  "  situation"  was  fully  comprehended. 

Captain  Butler,  of  Company  G,  Lieutenant  Payne,  of  Company  K, 
and  several  other  officers,  were  furloughed  to  obtain  recruits  for  the 
regiment,  whose  depleted  ranks  proclaimed  most  forcibly  the  fearful 
desperation  with  which,  up  to  this  period,  the  command  had  served 
their  country. 

March  went  out,  amid  frost  and  very  cold  weather,  without  inci 
dent  worthy  of  note.  J.  G.  Perry,  of  Company  K,  and  George 
Elmer  of  Company  F,  were  sent  out  to  reconnoitre  the  country  along 
Deer  Creek,  and  discover  whether  the  enemy  had  abandoned  all  in 
tentions  of  reaching  the  Yazoo  valley  through  this  route.  They 
departed  on  their  hazardous  enterprise  in  a  small  canoe,  taking  their 
arms  with  them. 

The  advent  of  the  second  Spring  month  was  heralded  by  a  genial 
atmosphere,  and  deep-blue  skies  overhead.  These  bounteous  gifts 
of  nature — blessings  much  enjoyed — were  gratefully  received  by 
men  who  had  lived  through  the  recent  stormy  wintry  months, 
scantily  supplied  with  shelter,  almost  constantly  in  motion,  and 
lately  watching  and  waiting  for  an  active  and  vigilant  foe  in  their 
anticipated  attack  upon  the  long  line  of  defenses  which  protected 
the  city  of  hills — heroic  Vicksburg. 

The  1st  day  of  April  was  marked  with  much  excitement,  breaking 
up  the  usual  monotony  of  camp  life,  by  the  intelligence  that  the 
enemy  were  approaching.  The  troops  were  speedily  under  arms, 
and  soon  the  deep  roar  of  a  signal-gun  proclaimed  the  truth  of  the 
report,  while  the  troops  eagerly  responded  to  its  summons,  and 
hastened  to  the  line  of  defenses.  Repairing  to  the  brow  of  the 
hill  commanding  a  view  of  the  valley,  many  anxiously  watched 
the  manoeuvres  of  the  approaching  foe.  A  cloud  of  black 
smoke,  rolling  above  the  tree-tops,  marked  the  advance  of  the 
enemy's  boats.  Soon  a  transport,  accompanied  by  three  gun-boats, 
landed  at  Blake's  plantation,  a  short  distance  below  the  bluff.  The 
transport  almost  immediately  returned  down  the  river,  while  the 
iron-clads  moved  slowly  up,  and,  sheltered  by  a  strip  of  woods  im 
mediately  in  front  of  our  position,  commenced  shelling  the  breast 
works  and  hills.  The  missiles  were  badly  aimed,  and  passed  harm 
lessly  over  the  men,  exploding  in  the  air,  without  injuring  a  single 
man.  One  boat,  becoming  emboldened  by  the  silence  of  our  frown 
ing  batteries,  and  the  apparent  stillness  of  the  whole  place,  steamed 
up  toward  our  guns,  in  full  view  from  the  bluffs,  but  carefully 


224  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

screening  herself  behind  the  adjacent  bend,  was  wise  enough  to  keep 
out  of  sight  of  our  huge  guns. 

After  a  short  reconnoissance  the  gun -boats  departed,  having  thrown 
about  twenty  shells  without  eliciting  any  reply.  No  clue  could  be  ob 
tained  as  to  the  purport  of  this  sudden  visit,  terminating  without 
any  material  design. 

The  enemy  seemed  very  restless  over  their  prolonged  operations 
against  Vicksburg,  evidenced  by  innumerable  expeditions  into  all 
the  adjacent  bayous,  lagoons,  creeks,  and  the  expenditure  of  ammu 
nition  in  shelling  the  silent  woods  and  deserted,  barren  fields.  At 
this  period,  they  seemed  to  have  abandoned  all  hopes  of  reaching 
the  Yazoo  via  Deer  Creek,  as  our  scouts  returned,  after  penetrating 
nearly  to  the  Mississippi  River,  reporting  not  having  seen  or  heard 
of  a  single  enemy  in  the  valley. 

On  the  3d,  a  large  number  of  recruits  arrived  for  Company  G,  and 
also  Lieuteant-Colonel  Russell. 

On  the  6th  of  April,  the  Yazoo  began  to  rise  very  rapidly,  being 
the  eflects  of  cutting  the  Grand  Levee  of  the  Mississippi  by  the 
Federals,  for  the  purpose  of  flooding  the  Tallahatchie  valley  and 
driving  our  forces  from  the  vicinity  of  Greenwood,  to  prevent  their 
operating  against  the  gun-boats  and  transports  of  the  Yankees,  as 
well  as  afford  them  better  facilities  for  expeditions  by  water.  This 
rise  extended  to  the  adjacent  creeks  and  bayous,  completely  in- 
nundating  the  whole  valley.  With  these  apparent  advantages,  the 
increased  flood  actually  placed  a  more  efficient  barrier  to  any  land 
attack  on  the  defenses  protecting  Vicksburg. 

This  new  idea  of  the  foe,  together  with  a  concentration  of  all 
their  valuable  means  of  attack,  indicated  an  early,  simultaneous  and 
vigorous  attack  on  some  point  of  the  line  of  defenses.  Our  troops 
were  hastening  up  the  Yazoo,  to  prevent  the  enemy's  approach  from 
the  north. 

On  the  10th,  Fort  Pemberton  was  evacuated,  after  a  most  heroic 
defense.  Several  days  passed  away  most  quietly  at  Snyder's  Mills, 
with  little  to  relieve  their  monotony.  Not  a  ripple  of  the  waves  of 
war,  that  thundered  with  such  angiy  fury  against  the  fortified  hills 
of  Vicksburg,  disturbed  the  quietude  of  the  lines.  Several  boats 
had  succeeded  in  getting  below  Vicksburg  in  safety,  notwithstanding 
the  storm  of  iron  hail  poured  upon  them.  It  was  the  beginning  of 
their  final  success.  This  occurred  on  the  night  of  April  17.  The 
terrific  cannonading  aroused  the  whole  camp,  and  the  flashes  of  the 
explosions  could  be  distinctly  seen. 

After  a  pretended  desertion  of  the  siege,  the  enemy  returned,  only 


A.   SOUTHERN   RECORD.  225 

to  increase  their  exertions  for  the  capture  of  our  stronghold.  They 
imagined,  perhaps,  that  their  pretended  abandonment  of  the  siege 
would  cause  our  troops  to  be  withdrawn,  and  thus  weaken  our  position, 
when, -by  a  sudden  return  and  an  unexpected  assault,  he  could  gain 
possession  of  the  place.  This  ruse  de  guerre  failed  most  signally, 
and  they  returned  only  to  find  us  still  prepared,  and  his  designs 
understood. 

The  days  thus  passed  away,  the  roar  of  artillery  at  Vicksburg 
reverberating  in  sullen  echoes  over  the  adjacent  valleys,  and  usually 
attracting  little  notice. 

On  the  16th  of  April,  the  raft  which,  blockaded  the  Yazoo  at 
Snyder's  Mills  gave  way  under  the  tremendous  pressure  of  the  accu 
mulated  flood  of  waters.  This  event  was  considered,  at  the  time,  a 
great  misfortune.  General  Smith  and  other  military  celebrities  soon 
assembled  at  the  point  of  disaster,  and  held  repeated  consultations 
as  to  the  best  method  of  repairing  the  evil.  The  anxiety  was  in 
tense.  An  unsuccessful  attempt  was  made  to  recover  the  portions  of 
the  raft  which  had  floated  away,  by  sending  the  steamer  Acadia 
below  after  them.  The  immense  flood  of  water,  and  the  rapid  cur 
rent,  rendered  the  attempt  of  rebuilding  the  raft  a  fruitless  one. 
Heavy  siege-guns  were  immediately  forwarded  to  this  point,  and 
placed  in  position  as  speedily  as  possible.  Whatever  human  in 
genuity  and  skill  could  invent  to  strengthen  the  position,  was  im 
mediately  put  in  practice.  Thus  the  hill-sides  commanding  the 
river  soon  were  thickly  dotted  with  frowning  batteries  of  heavy 
siege-guns. 

On  the  19th,  Major-General  Maury  left  the  division  for  a  new  post 
in  Tennessee.  His  departure  was  the  subject  of  general  regret.  In 
his  farewell  address  to  the  officers  and  soldiers  of  his  division,  he 
said  that  to  their  cUfralry  and  valor  did  he  owe  much  of  the  praise 
and  honor  bestowed  upon  him.  Each  officer  and  soldier  of  his  com 
mand  felt  that,  to  the  efficiency,  discipline,  and  gallantry  of  their 
leader,  they  owed,  in  a  great  measure,  all  that  had  contributed  to 
win  them  a  name  for  bravery  and  daring.  To  his  new  field  of  ope 
rations,  General  Maury  carried  with  him  unanimous  and  heartfelt 
wishes  for  increased  success,  as  well  as  those  deep,  undying  feelings 
of  friendship  and  admiration  which  united  the  soldiers  of  Napoleon 
to  their  idolized  Emperor,  and  made  them  invincible  in  battle.  Ko 
soldier  was  there  in  General  Maury's  command  too  humble  for  his 
notice,  as  well  as  the  highest  officer  in  his  division.  Understanding 
and  appreciating  the  position  and  feelings  of  the  Southern  volun 
teers,  his  intercourse  with  them  was  such  as  to  gain  their  unbounded 
10* 


226  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

admiration,  and  entwine  round  each  soldier's  heart  those  tendrils  of 
affection  and  devotion  which  death  only  could  sever.  Oftentimes 
have  we  seen  General  Maury  dashing  along  the  road,  followed  by 
his  staff,  when,  meeting  some  soiled  and  uncouth-looking  private, 
wearily  marching  along  the  dusty  road,  he  would  bend  forward 
gracefully  in  his  saddle,  and,  lifting  his  hat  from  his  brow,  salute  the 
soldier  with  all  the  polished  ease  and  elegance  of  manner  so  indica 
tive  of  the  high-toned  gentleman,  and  with  a  soldierly  politeness, 
worthy  a  superior,  and  not  as  if  the  object  of  his  deference  and 
marked  attention  was  the  private  soldier  of  his  division.  No  won 
der  the  men  loved  him  and  disliked  to  part  with  him. 

We  had  seen  him  on  the  fierce  field  of  battle 

Firm  as  the  granite,  while  the  musket's  sharp  rattle, 

The  cannon's  deep  roar,  the  charge  of  the  foes, 

Told  where  thickest  the  fight,  where  fiercest  the  blows. 

We  had  seen  him  on  march,  long,  toilsome,  and  dreary, 

Encourage  the  men,  travel-worn,  weak,  and  weary ; 

Amid  the  quiet  of  camp,  011  the  showy  review, 

Always  affable,  kind,  brave,  courteous  and  true. 

Ever  cherished,  remembered,  wherever  thou  mayst  go, 

Brave  Dabney  H.  Maury  we  bade  thee  adieu. 

On  the  21st,  the  whole  regiment  was  armed  with  Confederate 
Mississippi  rifles,  having  sabre  bayonets,  making  a  fine  appearance. 
These  rifles  were,  however,  almost  worthless,  as  the  sequel  of  their 
fate  will  show. 

On  the  23d,  five  transports  and  one  gun-boat  succeeded  in  getting 
safely  past  the  batteries  at  Vicksburg,  thus  considerably  augmenting 
the  strength  of  the  fleet  below  the  city,  and  causing  some  anxiety 
to  be  felt  as  to  the  success  of  the  designs  of  the  enemy,  which  began 
to  develop  themselves.  This  success  of  the  Federals  in  running  the 
gauntlet  of  the  heavy  batteries  caused  considerable  comment,  and 
the  press  published  some  strange  accounts  of  neglect  and  inattention 
on  the  part  of  the  officers  in  charge  at  Vicksburg.  Whether  correct 
or  not,  certain  was  it,  that  the  enemy  had  accomplished  their  object, 
despite  the  heavy  fire  poured  into  their  steamers  from  the  batteries. 
Their  escape  from  destruction  was  assuredly  miraculous.  Thus, 
while  these  stirring  scenes  were  daily  transpiring  at  Vicksburg,  the 
Third  Louisiana  Regiment  was  quietly  encamped  on  the  Yazoo, 
surrounding  themselves  with  soldiers'  comforts,  and  enjoying  them 
selves  in  varied  amusements.  Summer-houses,  built  of  cane  closely 
entwined  together,  and  covered  with  shingle  roofs,  occupied  much 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  227 

attention,  and  gave  the  camp  quite  a  picturesque  appearance.  These 
airy  structures  were  very  pleasant  during  the  warm  days,  and  afford 
ed  ample  protection  and  shelter  in  stormy  weather.  The  days  of 
April,  however,  were  usually  clear  and  pleasant.  The  valley  in  front 
of  the  hills  was  mostly  open  fields,  and  where  timber  once  stood 
was  a  heavy  abattis  of  felled  trees,  intersected  with  lagoons  and 
ditches.  These  were  swarming  with  cray-fish,  and  the  men  not  only 
found  amusement  in  catching  them,  but  also  a  very  palatable  article 
of  food.  They  were  caught  in  immense  quantities,  all  the  tackle 
necessary  for  their  capture  being  confined  to  pieces  of  meat  tied  to 
strings.  They  could  be  drawn  out  of  the  water  almost  as  rapidly  as 
three  or  four  of  these  simple  lines  could  be  pulled  up,  sometimes  five 
and  six  cray-fish  clinging  to  a  single  bit  of  meat.  It  required  but  a 
very  few  moments  to  fill  a  bushel  bag  with  these  ravenous  shell-fish. 
Cray-fish  soup  was  no  rarity  in  camp.  The  Mississippians  looked 
with  great  amazement  and  much  disgust  at  the  keen  relish  with 
which  "  them  ere  Cre-owl  Louisianians  "  devoured  this  species  of 
food.  They  could  not  appreciate  such  a  peculiar  taste. 

On  the  29th  day  of  April,  the  long-anticipated  attack  on  our  po 
sition  was  commenced.  The  thundering  echoes  of  war,  which  had 
so  long  disturbed  the  quiet  of  the  Mississippi  valley,  at  last  found 
an  answering  echo  from  the  emerald  hills  and  peaceful  valley  of  the 
Yazoo.  Early  on  the  morning  of  this  day  a  huge  cloud  of  smoke, 
rolling  its  dark  volume  over  the  valley  below,  admonished  us  that 
the  foe  were  approaching  in  considerable  force.  Making  Chickasaw 
Bayou  (the  scene  of  their  first  repulse  in  an  attempt  to  reach  Vicks- 
burg  by  land  from  above)  a  rendezvous,  they  remained  quietly  in 
that  vicinity  all  night.  Our  camps  were  filled  with  rumors  that 
they  were  attempting  to  effect  a  second  landing  at  this  point.  These 
rumors  proved  incorrect.  About  9  o'clock  A.  M.,  April  30th,  the  fleet 
ascended  the  river  and  approached  our  position.  The  troops  were 
promptly  in  their  places  in  the  intrenchments.  While  the  transports, 
some  eight  in  number,  kept  at  a  safe  distance,  three  gun-boats  ran  up 
within  range  of  our  batteries,  and  opened  the  fight.  A  terrific  can 
nonading  immediately  followed.  The  iron-clad  Choctaw  ran  up 
within  easy  range  of  our  upper  guns  and  opened  fire  on  them.  They 
responded  at  once,  and  with  a  skill  and  accuracy  in  handling  the 
guns  worthy  of  old  cannoniers.  The  Choctaw  was  struck  fifty-three 
times  during  the  engagement,  which  lasted  nearly  five  hours.  Her 
flag-staff  was  shot  away,  and,  as  much  hammering  was  heard  on 
board  of  her  after  the  firing  had  ceased,  it  was  thought  that  she  was 
seriously  crippled.  The  casualties  at  our  batteries  were  two  men 


228  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

badly  wounded,  and  the  cracking  of  a  band  of  one  of  the  32-pounder 
rifle  guns.  While  the  Choctaw  was  engaging  the  upper  batteries, 
the  other  gun-boats  ran  up  within  easy  range  of  the  whole  line  of 
trenches,  and  opposite  the  lower  batteries,  and  shelled  the  lines  most 
furiously.  Although  the  bombardment  was  fierce  and  protracted 
(their  shells  exploding  in  every  direction),  yet,  strange  as  it  may 
appear,  no  casualties  occurred  save  the  killing  of  a  horse  in  one  of 
the  light  batteries.  The  bombardment  ceased  for  this  day  at  3£  P.  M. 
Late  in  the  afternoon,  the  fleet  was  augmented  by  the  arrival  of  more 
boats,  so  that  it  numbered  fifteen  transports,  three  mortar-boats,  and 
six  gun-boats.  During  the  progress  of  the  first  day's  fight,  the  Third 
Louisiana  Infantry  occupied  a  position  near  Blake's  upper  quarters, 
in  the  valley,  near  the  Yazoo,  and  later  in  the  day  in  the  marshy 
ground,  directly  in  front  of  the  fortifications  at  this  point.  Taking 
advantage  of  the  sheltering  protection  of  the  levee  on  the  river  bank, 
they  obtained  a  position  in  close  proximity  to  the  Choctaw,  and  fired 
into  her  port-holes  whenever  opened. 

During  the  progress  of  the  fight  the  enemy  perpetrated  one  of 
those  acts  of  Vandalism,  so  common  in  war,  by  setting  fire  to  Mr. 
Blake's  deserted  quarters.  They  supposed  that  the  valley  was  free 
from  Confederates,  as  they  had  seen  them  apparently  leaving  this 
place.  Retributive  justice  was  summarily  visited  on  the  perpetra 
tors  of  this  incendiarism.  The  left  of  the  regiment  was  close  at  hand  ; 
and,  as  the  flames  issued  from  the  buildings,  the  sharp  reports  of  their 
unerring  rifles  caused  several  of  the  enemy  to  bite  the  dust,  while 
the  remainder  incontinently  "  skedaddled  "  to  their  boats.  One  offi 
cer  was  shot  while  standing  on  the  deck  of  the  iron-clad  making 
observations.  In  the  skirmish  with  the  squad  from  the  gun-boats, 
who  succeeded  in  effecting  a  landing  without  the  knowledge  of  the 
picket,  Lieutenant  J.  R  Cottingham,  of  Company  I,  was  thrice 
wounded,  and  taken  prisoner  by  the  enemy.  The  whole  picket  nar 
rowly  escaped  capture,  some  of  the  men  actually  screening  themselves 
from  observation  by  jumping  into  the  river,  and  concealing  them 
selves  under  the  banks.  There  were  no  other  casualties  in  the  regi 
ment.  The  scream  of  shells,  the  deep  roar  of  heavy  artillery,  made 
Snyder's  Mills  a  lively  spot  on  the  last  day  of  April,  and  gave  birth 
to  numerous  ridiculous  incidents,  notwithstanding  the  seriousness  of 
the  cause.  During  the  night  the  trenches  were  occupied,  and  a  line 
of  pickets  thrown  out  to  watch  the  enemy's  movements. 

The  morning  of  May  1st,  1863,  the  day  usually  devoted  to  scenes 
of  festivity  in  honor  of  the  Goddess  of  Flowers,  dawned  clear, 
bright,  and  beautiful,  showing  the  Federal  fleet  lying  opposite  Blake's 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  229 

lower  quarters,  beyond  the  range  of  our  batteries.  In  front  of  our 
lower  battery  was  a  large  field  under  cultivation.  Near  its  centre, 
between  the  line  of  fortifications  and  the  Yazoo,  is  a  depression  in 
the  surface  of  the  lands  extending  down  the  valley,  then  covered 
with  water. 

Before  the  war,  a  large  levee  shut  out  the  overflow  arising  from 
the  freshets  in  the  Yazoo.  The  enemy  placed  a  picket  on  this  levee, 
in  full  view  and  within  easy  range  of  our  field-pieces.  "With  perfect 
sangfroid  they  paced  to  and  fro  along  their  elevated  beat,  regardless 
of  the  close  proximity  of  our  artillery.  Operations  commenced  by 
a  battery  opening  on  this  picket,  resulting  in  no  harm  beyond  driving 
them  from  the  top,  behind  the  sheltering  protection  of  the  embank 
ment.  Early  in  the  day,  a  party  of  some  forty  or  fifty,  following 
the  banks  of  the  river,  and  sheltering  themselves  behind  the  levee 
and  woods,  suddenly  appeared  in  close  proximity  to  our  upper  bat 
teries,  where  the  river  strikes  the  bluff,  evidently  bent  on  reconnoi- 
tering  the  raft.  The  heavy  guns  immediately  opened  on  them  with 
an  unerring  precision  of  aim,  that  compelled  them  to  beat  a  precipi 
tate  retreat,  with  a  loss  of  several  of  the  party.  Their  next  manoeuvre 
was  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  river,  some  distance  below,  in  con 
siderable  force.  As  they  were  observed  dodging  among  the  trees 
and  running  across  an  old  field,  the  gallant  boys  of  the  Twenty- 
second  Louisiana  gave  them  another  lesson  of  their  skill  in  managing 
siege-guns,  and  quickly  drove  them  back  once  more.  During  these 
operations,  the  gun-boats  remained  quietly  anchored  in  the  stream. 
About  half-past  three  o'clock  p.  M.,  they  took  position  directly  in 
front  of  our  lower  battery  on  Grave  Yard  Hill,  and  directed  a  con 
centrated  fire  on  it  from  three  of  their  boats,  while  two  others  shelled 
our  headquarters  ;  the  mortar-boats  sending  their  huge  missiles  into 
the  valleys  directly  in  rear  of  the  intrench ments.  The  cannonading 
was  terrific  on  both  sides ;  the  guns  being  handled  with  great  skill. 
The  ground  in  the  vicinity  of  our  lower  battery  was  actually  ploughed 
up  by  the  heavy,  plunging  shot.  The  parapet  was  repeatedly  struck, 
the  shells  often  exploding  within  the  works.  The  firing  continued 
incessantly  for  over  four  hours  ;  yet,  strange  as  it  may  appear,  there 
was  not  a  single  casualty  among  our  troops. 

After  the  cessation  of  the  fight,  considerable  hammering  was  heard 
in  the  direction  of  the  enemy's  boats,  which,  taken  in  connection 
with  their  refusal  to  engage  our  upper  batteries,  proves  conclusively 
that  they  must  have  sustained  considerable  damage.  During  the 
night  of  the  first,  the  Yankee  fleet  quietly  departed,  and  the  next 
morning  not  a  boat  was  to  be  seen. 


230  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 


A   DARING   FEAT. 

About  4  o'clock  p.  M.  on  the  first,  while  the  gun-boats  were  firing 
on  the  lower  batteries,  a  daring  and  successful  feat  of  desertion 
occurred.  The  deserter  belonged  to  an  Illinois  regiment,  but  was  a 
Kentuckian,  representing  himself  as  General  Sherman's  orderly,  and 
giving  his  name  as  William  Hammond.  He  had  been  sent  to  the 
outposts  with  dispatches.  Reaching  these,  he  swam  his  horse  around 
the  cuts  in  the  levee,  and  successfully  passed  the  Federal  pickets, 
emerging,  in  full  view  of  both  armies,  from  the  bushes  in  the  swamp 
land  into  the  cultivated  field.  As  his  intentions  became  apparent, 
he  was  fired  on,  but  spurring  his  horse  into  a  headlong  gallop,  he 
turned  towards  the  picket,  fired  his  pistol  in  derision,  and  arrived 
safely  in  our  lines,  amid  the  loud  cheers  of  the  men.  The  boys  were 
wild  with  excitement,  jumping  from  the  ditches  upon  the  top  of  the 
breastworks,  and  along  the  hill-sides,  regardless  of  the  danger,  in 
their  eagerness  to  witness  the  race.  As  the  deserter  reached  the  lines, 
he  threw  his  pistol  from  him,  at  the  same  time  exclaiming,  "  Hurrah 
for  old  Ken  tuck." 

He  gave  the  information  that  the  enemy  were  not  strong  enough 
to  assault  our  works,  and  that  the  movement  was  a  mere  feint  to 
keep  our  forces  occupied,  and  to  prevent  their  reinforcing  the  army 
at  Grand  Gulf,  where  a  formidable  demonstration  was  being  made 
by  General  Grant  to  land  his  troops.  The  information  was  not 
credited  at  the  time,  although  its  correctness  was  clearly  demonstrated 
by  subsequent  events. 

FIRST   VISIT   FROM   MORTAR    SHELLS. 

Up  to  this  period,  amid  all  their  experience  in  warlike  missiles, 
the  members  of  the  regiment  had  never  been  under  a  visitation  from 
mortar  shells.  Several  of  these  huge  visitors  descended  into  the 
camp  of  the  regiment,  spoiling  the  appearance  of  the  ground,  and 
making  pi  generally  of  everything  within  their  vicinity.  The  camp 
guard  and  details  thought  to  find  protection  within  the  shelter  of 
their  houses  in  the  hill-sides,  but  a  view  of  the  tremendous  force  and 
powers  of  destruction  of  the  huge  iron  balls,  soon  drove  them  into 
the  open  air,  as  by  far  a  greater  shelter  than  caves,  with  the  proba 
bility  of  a  burial  alive.  The  reserve  artillery  and  infantry  sought 
shelter  from  the  flying  shells,  beneath  the  protection  of  an  almost  per 
pendicular  hill.  Imagine  their  surprise,  when  one  of  these  shells, 
exploding  over  them,  sent  its  fragments  directly  into  their  midst, 
considerably  startling  them  from  their  dreams  of  security,  doing, 


THIED    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  231 

however,  no  damage  beyond  killing  a  horse  attached  to  one  of  the 
batteries. 

PREPARATIONS   TO   LEAVE    SNYDER's   MILLS. 

On  the  3d  of  May  the  regiment  received  orders  to  keep  three  days' 
rations  cooked,  and  be  ready  to  march  at  a  moment's  notice. 

Stirring  news  began  to  reach  us  from  below.  During  the  attack 
on  our  position,  the  enemy  had  succeeded  in  effecting  a  landing  at 
Grand  Gulf.  In  consequence  of  the  overwhelming  numbers  of  the 
Federals,  this  place  was  evacuated  after  spiking  the  guns.  The  gal 
lant  Missourians  of  Bowen's  Brigade  fought  most  desperately,  but 
were  compelled  to  give  way  before  the  overwhelming  numbers 
opposed  to  them.  Our  little  army  retreated  to  Port  Gibson,  where, 
being  reinforced  by  Tracy's  and  Green's  Brigades,  another  desperate 
conflict  occurred,  but  again  being  outnumbered,  were  compelled  to 
give  way.  Among  the  killed  at  Grand  Gulf  was  Colonel  Wade,  of 
the  Missouri  Brigade,  a  man  universally  esteemed  for  his  gallantry  as 
a  soldier,  and  his  unvarying  kindness  toward  all  with  whom  he 
came  in  contact.  At  Port  Gibson  another  able  commander  fell. 
Brigadier-General  Tracy  was  one  of  the.  most  efficient  brigade  com 
manders  in  the  army,  and  his  loss  was  irreparable.  Disasters  fol 
lowed  each  other  in  rapid  succession,  the  enemy  successfully  driving 
back  our  forces  by  their  overwhelming  numbers,  unsuccessful  attempts 
being  made  at  Raymond  and  Big  Black  to  check  their  steady  advance. 
The  threatening  aspect  of  affairs  east  of  Yicksburg  filled  our  camp 
with  innumerable  conflicting  rumors,  and  the  men  were  full  of  ex 
citement  and  enthusiasm.  On  the  16th,  reports  reached  us  of  the 
capture  of  Jackson.  On  the  17th,  the  success  of  the  enemy  was 
confirmed  by  the  sound  of  heavy  guns  east  of  our  position,  indicating 
severe  fighting  in  the  vicinity  of  Big  Black.  Kelton,  formerly 
a  private  of  Company  E,  Third  Louisiana  Infantry,  but  then  attached 
to  a  battery,  arrived  in  camp  during  the  day,  covered  with  dust  and 
blackened  with  powder.  He  reported  all  the  guns  of  his  battery 
lost,  except  one.  A  portion  of  our  troops  precipitately  retreated  on 
the  appearance  of  the  enemy,  without  firing  a  gun,  abandoning  the 
artillery  in  their  haste  to  place  Big  Black  between  themselves  and 
the  victorious  foe.  It  is  needless  to  record  the  fact  that  the  gallant 
Missourians  fought  like  tigers  at  bay,  successfully  withstanding  the 
assaults  of  the  Yankees,  and  escaping  capture  only  by  the  most  de 
termined  bravery,  when  the  other  troops  gave  way.  They  added 
new  lustre  to  the  laurel  wreath  which  already  adorned  their  names 
and  fame,  for  distinguished  valor  and  undaunted  bravery.  Thus  the 


232  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

fierce  storm  of  war,  which  had  so  long  thundered  in  impotent  fury 
against  our  young  Gibraltar,  was  descending  with  fearful  force  upon 
our  stronghold  and  its  devoted  defenders. 

INCIDENTS    OF   LIFE    AT    SNYDER'S   MILLS. 

The  Third  Regiment  had  never  been  more  pleasantly  situated  than 
at  Snyder's  Mills,  constantly  subjected,  as  they  were,  to  active  ser 
vice.  With  a  skill,  perseverance,  and  ingenuity  truly  commendable, 
they  had  erected  comfortable  quarters,  and  gathered  about  them  all 
those  little  conveniences  which  become  actual  luxuries  to  the  soldier. 
Within  easy  communication  with  all  parts  of  the  country,  daily 
papers  reached  them,  furnishing  full  particulars  of  the  progress  of 
the  war  throughout  the  land,  while  Vicksburg  was  sufficiently  near 
to  enable  them  to  procure  such  necessaries  as  they  needed,  or  were 
able  to  purchase. 

SUPPLIES. 

Immense  quantities  of  supplies  of  every  description  were  trans 
ported  down  the  Yazoo  on  steamers,  and  discharged  at  the  landing 
above  our  camp.  Thence  they  were  carried  in  wagons  to  a  depot 
commissary  near  at  hand,  or  to  Vicksburg.  Thus  a  large  amount  of 
stores  for  subsistence  accumulated  at  this  point.  Of  course,  the 
veterans  of  the  regiment  could  not  restrain  their  propensity  for 
foraging,  especially  when  the  beef  issued  them  was  not  only  very 
poor,  but  actually,  at  times,  offensive,  the  cattle  often  dying  in  the 
butcher-pens  ere  they  could  be  slaughtered.  The  boys  eagerly  vol 
unteered  to  load  the  supplies,  and  it  was  not  an  unusual  occurrence 
for  wagons  to  reach  their  destinations  much  lighter  than  when  they 
started.  It  was  unaccountable  how  fine  hams  would  fall  out  of  the 
wagons,  along  the  road-side,  and  still  more  strange  how  squads  fol 
lowing  the  train  would  find  these  hams,  and  carry  them,  not  whence 
they  were  lost,  but  into  camp.  Eggs  and  chickens  were  plentiful, 
and  a  breakfast  of  broiled  ham,  fried  eggs,  and  chickens,  was  no 
rarity.  Yet  about  the  quarters  there  was  no  appearance  of  a  super 
abundance  of  supplies  ;  but,  when  the  encampment  was  broken  up, 
the  mystery  was  explained,  as  every  mess  in  the  regiment  uncovered 
underground  store  and  smokehouses,  most  ingeniously  constructed, 
with  an  eye  both  to  concealment  and  the  preservation  of  their  con 
tents.  Verily,  soldiers  are  queer  bipeds.  Major  T.  W.  Scott,  Brigade 
Commissary,  and  his  clerks,  Niolin  and  W.  Johnson,  could  some 
wondrous  tales  unfold  of  the  mysterious  disappearance  of  their 
supplies,  even  when  thoroughly  guarded  and  watched  by  argus-eyed 
sentinels. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  233 


"THEM  ERE  MELITIA." 

Near  the  regiment  was  an  encampment  of  Mississippi  militia,  coin- 
posed  of  men  of  good  intentions,  but  most  wofully  ignorant  of 
tactics  and  discipline.  Their  attempts  at  drilling  and  maneuvering 
gave  rise  to  some  rich,  racy,  and  laughable  scenes.  Of  course  this 
afforded  a  never-ending  source  of  amusement  to  the  disciplined  vet 
erans  of  the  regiment,  and  an  opportunity  for  indulging  their  pro 
pensity  for  fun.  Thus  the  drill  of  the  militia  was  always  the  occasion 
for  outbursts  such  as  the  following :  "  Now,  men,  mind  you  stand 
up  straight,  and  form  line  like  a  ram's  horn."  "Now  mind,  I'm 
going  to  fling  you  into  fours."  "  Into  fours— git."  "  Into  twos — 
git."  "  Now  I'll  swing  you  like  a  gate."  "  Swing  like  a  gate — git." 
This  new  style  of  issuing  orders  was  always  received  with  uproarious 
mirth,  and  so  confused  the  amateur  soldiers  as  to  completely  in 
capacitate  them  for  performing  any  evolutions.  They  were  actually 
compelled  to  change  their  quarters  to  escape  the  sport  made  of  them 
by  "  them  ere  cussed  Cre-owl  Louisianians." 

A   COMPROMISE    WITH   A    COLONEL. 

Colonel  Witherspoon,  of  the  Thirty-sixth  Mississippi,  was  often 
in  command  of  the  brigade,  and  whenever  he  passed  the  camp  was 
almost  certain  to  be  made  the  subject  of  some  rude  joke,  as  the  men 
had  never  forgotten  the  incident  at  Camp  Rogers.  On  one  occasion 
he  detected  two  of  the  regiment  in  the  very  act  of  flaying  a  hog, 
which  they  had  killed,  a  flagrant  breach  of  military  orders,  and  sub 
jecting  them  to  severe  punishment.  Here  was  an  opportunity  for 
the  Colonel  to  repay  some  of  the  sport  constantly  made  of  him. 
Approaching  the  culprits,  the  following  colloquy  ensued:  "Well, 
men,  I  have  caught  you  in  the  very  act  of  transgressing  positive  or 
ders.  There  is  no  denying  this  fact." 

u  Yes,  Colonel,  we  plead  guilty,  and  have  no  excuses  to  make." 

"  I  hardly  know  what  to  do  with  you.  However,  I  will  com 
promise  with  you.  If  you  will  agree  to  cease  calling  me  '  Pewter- 
spoon,'  I'll  promise  to  say  nothing  about  this  matter." 

The  boys  eagerly  made  the  agreement,  shouldered  their  "  game," 
and  arrived  safely  in  camp,  and  related  their  adventure.  The  story 
soon  went  the  rounds,  and  the  men  showed  their  appreciation  of  the 
forbearance  and  general  good-humor  of  the  Colonel  to  their  com 
rades  by  refraining  from  making  him  the  subject  of  their  fun.  A 
simple  act  of  kindness  won  immediately  their  esteem  and  good  will. 
Whether  true  or  not,  there  are  few  of  the  regiment  who  do  not  re- 


234:  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

member  this  story  as  here  related,  and  the  cessation  of  all  hostilities 
thereafter,  toward  Colonel  Witherspoon. 

PRIZE-FIGHTING. 

When  the  regiment  first  entered  the  service,  there  was,  as  is  usual 
among  a  large  number  of  men,  numerous  personal  encounters.  On 
such  occasions  the  officers  used  their  authority,  and  immediately 
prevented  any  serious  collisions.  The  consequence  was,  that  quar 
reling  became  almost  a  daily  occurrence,  the  men  seeming  to  feel 
satisfied  that  no  serious  consequences  would  result  from  it.  At  Suy- 
der's  Bluff  a  new  order  of  proceeding  was  established,  and  by  a  tacit 
agreement  whenever  two  men  felt  disposed  to  have  a  sparring-match 
they  were  permitted  to  do  so,  provided  they  went  out  of  camp.  On 
one  occasion  two  fine-looking,  stalwart  members  of  Company  A 
quarreled.  The  officer  in  command  ordered  them  to  cease  wrangling, 
and  go  fight  it  out  if  they  desired  to.  He  was  taken  at  his  word, 
and  the  two  men  went  up  one  of  the  narrow  defiles,  unattended  by 
seconds  or  friends.  None  offered  to  follow  them.  In  a  few  moments 
they  returned  to  the  company  together,  one  having  a  badly- bruised 
face,  and  the  other  minus  some  of  his  front  teeth.  No  explanations 
were  vouchsafed,  and  the  antagonists  were  friends,  after  having 
fought  it  out  on  their  own  line.  This  method  of  settling  disputes 
made  the  men  live  harmoniously  together,  and  almost  entirely 
checked  the  propensity  for  indulging  in  personal  encounters. 

These  are  but  a  few  of  the  numerous  incidents  of  camp  life  at 
Snyder's  Mills. 


CHAPTER    XXVIII. 

VICKSBURG. 

THE  17th  of  May  dawned  clear  and  warm.  The  bright,  smiling 
skies  seemed  not  as  if  they  canopied  events  which  would  decide  the 
destiny  of  a  great  nation.  Yet  beneath  their  azure  clearness  the 
fierce  passions  of  man  were  at  work,  making  fearful  records  for  the 
historian's  pen,  and  writing  in  letters  of  blood  the  instability  of  all 
earthly  plans.  The  serene  atmosphere  way  early  disturbed  by  the 
dull,  heavy  reports  of  distant  artillery.  Orders  were  soon  received 
to  prepare  to  march  toward  the  theatre  of  strife.  Amid  the  most 
intense  excitement,  preparations  to  leave  were  begun.  There  was  no 
transportation  for  clothing,  stores,  cooking-utensils,  or  camp-equip 
age.  Provisions,  accumulated  for  months,  were  brought  from  their 
hiding-places,  and  each  man  selected  what  he  could  conveniently 
carry.  Knapsacks  were  filled  to  their  utmost  capacity  with  all  the 
soldier's  most  valuable  and  treasured  articles.  Extra  blankets,  robes, 
clothing  of  all  descriptions,  tents,  utensils,  etc.,  were  indiscriminately 
heaped  together  in  the  quarters  and  abandoned.  The  heavy  siege- 
guns  were  either  spiked,  or  loaded  so  as  to  burst  them,  a  detail 
being  left  to  accomplish  this  design,  after  the  army  had  departed ; 
also  to  blow  up  the  magazines,  and  destroy  the  depot-commissary, 
containing  an  immense  supply  of  provisions.  The  troops  left  Sny- 
cler's  Bluffs  for  aye  late  at  night,  and  proceeded  toward  Vicksburg, 
an  intermingled  line  of  wagons,  artillery,  and  infantry.  The  night 
was  very  dark,  yet  the  men  pushed  forward  as  rapidly  as  possible 
along  the  valley,  wading  streams  and  sloughs  on  the  route.  Not 
withstanding  the  gloom  which  overshadowed  their  future,  and  the 
losses  which  they  had  sustained  by  their  sudden  abandonment  of 
their  recent  position,  as  well  as  the  proximity  of  the  foe  in  such 
overwhelming  force,  they  were  in  most  excellent  spirits,  and  very 
enthusiastic.  They  considered  Vicksburg  an  impregnable  strong 
hold,  and  experienced  a  peculiar  pride  in  the  prospect  of  defending 
it  during  the  approaching  struggle. 

On  the  morning  of  May  18th,  1863,  the  regiment  reached  the  Hill 


236  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

City,  and  were  immediately  placed  in  tlie  intrenchments.  These 
intrenchments  were  constructed  on  the  crests  of  a  line  of  hills,  ex 
tending  in  a  semicircle  completely  around  the  city,  and  about  a  mile 
in  its  rear.  The  whole  country  was  a  succession  of  abrupt  hills, 
intersected  by  deep,  narrow  defiles.  The  regiment  was  placed  near 
the  centre  of  the  line,  on  the  left  of  the  s^ckson  road,  as  it  emerges 
from  a  deep  cut  through  a  hill.  On  tiie  >  s»i:t  of  the  road  were  the 
Twenty-first  and  Twenty-second  Louisiana  Regiments,  consolidated, 
and  on  their  left  the  Mississippi  Regiments,  comprising  the  remainder 
of  Hebert's  Brigade.  General  Hebert  informed  the  men  that  they 
held  the  key  to  the  city,  on  the  most  exposed  portion  of  the  line. 
The  regiment  responded  that  they  would  sustain  their  blood-earned 
reputation,  justify  the  confidence  reposed  in  their  bravery,  and  per 
ish  to  a  man  ere  they  would  relinquish  their  position  to  a  million 
foes.  Perhaps  no  body  of  men  were  actuated  by  feelings  of  more 
determined  courage,  and  a  spirit  of  resistance  even  unto  annihila 
tion. 

In  the  position  which  they  occupied,  the  left  of  the  regiment  was 
very  much  exposed,  no  intrenchments  being  constructed  on  that 
portion  of  the  line.  Self-preservation,  the  first  law  of  nature, 
admonished  the  men  of  their  peril.  Procuring  spades  and  pickaxes, 
they  went  to  work  with  a  desperate  energy,  which  rapidly  constructed 
works  on  the  gap  in  the  line.  Rumors  and  particulars  of  the  disasters 
which  had  befallen  our  troops,  poured  in  on  our  men  as  they  took 
their  respective  positions  along  the  lines.  Numbers  had  fallen  into 
the  enemy's  hands,  and  many  pieces  of  artillery  had  been  lost.  Yet 
our  brigades,  fresh  from  camp,  felt  no  despondency,  and  the  shadow 
of  defeat  darkened  not  their  brave  spirits  as  they  quietly  waited  for 
the  foe.  On  the  afternoon  of  the  18th  the  skirmishing  began  some 
distance  outside  of  the  line  of  works.  Our  forces  were  steadily 
driven  back,  until  they  reached  the  protection  of  our  guns.  The 
enemy  hesitated  as  they  reached  the  line  of  woods  skirting  the 
cleared  ground  in  front  of  the  breastworks.  It  was  only  momentary, 
however,  and  the  spattering  reports  of  the  small-arms  approached 
nearer  and  nearer.  The  next  day  was  clear  and  warm.  The  enemy 
succeeded  in  establishing  their  position,  and  the  siege  commenced 
in  earnest.  About  1  o'clock  p.  M.  the  cannonading  became  terrific, 
the  musketry  deadly  and  heavy.  The  enemy  charged  the  intrench 
ments  on  a  portion  of  the  lines,  and  were  driven  back  with  fearful 
slaughter,  our  own  loss  being  very  light.  The  Third  Louisiana 
began  to  suffer  from  the  enemy's  sharpshooters  at  the  very  inception 
of  the  siege.  Regardless  of  the  unerring  precision  with  which  the 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  237 

enemy's  sharpshooters  used  their  splendid,  long-range  guns — fearless 
to  a  fault,  they  suffered  severely  for  their  temerity  in  their  reckless 
exposure  of  their  persons.  Among  the  killed  and  wounded  of  May 
19th,  were  N.  Schlade  and  L.  D.  Blanchard,  of  Company  A.  Noble 
soldiers  of  one  of  our  best  companies. 

May  20th,  at  1  A.  M.,  the  silence  of  the  starlit  night  was  broken 
by  the  roar  of  heavy  guns.  A  huge  iron-clad  approached  from  below, 
and  commenced  a  furious  bombardment  of  the  city,  which  was 
rapidly  responded  to  by  our  heavy  batteries.  Below  lay  the  fleet  of 
the  enemy,  and  above,  the  river  was  dotted  with  a  huge  fleet  of 
transports  and  war  vessels.  On  the  peninsular  the  white  tents  of 
the  enemy's  encampment  were  plainly  visible.  Such  was  the  pano 
ramic  view  in  front  of  Yicksburg  on  the  third  morning  of  the  siege. 
At  early  dawn  the  mortar  fleet  of  Commodore  Porter  opened  fire  on 
the  beleaguered  city,  adding  to  the  tremendous  din  their  hoarse  bel 
lowing,  accompanied  with  the  fearful  screams  and  tremendous  con 
cussions  of  their  huge,  exploding  missiles.  The  place  was  a  perfect 
pandemonium  from  early  dawn.  The  hoarse  bellowing  of  the  mor 
tars,  the  sharp  report  of  rifled  artillery,  the  scream  and  explosion  of 
every  variety  of  deadly  missiles,  intermingled  with  the  incessant, 
sharp  reports  of  small-arms,  made  up  a  combination  of  sounds  not 
such  as  described  by  the  poet  as  being  a  "  sweet  concord.'1  A  trip 
through  Vicksburg  exhibited  some  strange  spectacles. 

Huge  caves  were  excavated  out  of  the  precipitous  hill-sides,  where 
families  of  women  and  children  sheltered  themselves  from  the  hurt 
ling  shot  and  the  descending  fragments  of  exploding  missiles.  Fair 
ladies,  in  all  the  vigor  and  loveliness  of  youth,  hurried  with  light 
tread  along  the  torn  up  pavements,  fearless  of  the  storm  of  iron 
and  lead,  penetrating  every  portion  of  the  city,  as  they  attended  to 
the  necessities  of  their  brave,  wounded  and  dying  protectors.  The 
annals  of  history  can  furnish  no  more  brilliant  record  than  did  the 
heroic  women  of  Vicksburg  during  this  fearful  siege.  Regardless 
of  personal  danger,  they  flitted  about  the  hospitals  or  threaded  the 
streets  on  their  missions  of  love,  utterly  forgetful  of  self  in  their 
heroic  efforts  to  relieve  the  sufferings  of  those  who  so  gallantly  de 
fended  their  hearth-stones.  Many,  very  many  heroic  spirits,  bade 
farewell  to  earth  amid  the  thunder  and  din  of  the  siege,  feeling  the 
soothing  pressure  of  soft  hands  upon  their  clammy  brows,  and  the 
glance  of  tender,  pitying  eyes  gazing  into  the  failing  light  of  their 
glazing  orbs,  as  these  ministering  angels  hovered  about  the  lowly 
cots  of  the  dying  soldiers.  No  pen  can  describe  in  sufficiently  glow 
ing  colors  ;  no  human  language  find  words  brilliant,  forcible  enough 


238  A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

to  do  justice  to  the  unwearying  attentions,  tender  compassion,  soul- 
felt  sympathy,  unvarying  kindness,  and  unceasing  labors  of  love,  of 
the  tender-hearted,  heroic  and  fearless  ladies  of  Vicksburg,  toward 
their  suffering  countrymen.  The  Third  Regiment  suffered  severely 
this  day,  losing  nine  men  killed  and  wounded ;  yet,  not  for  an 
instant  failing  in  their  spirits  and  enthusiasm. 

May  21st.  The  firing  continued  rapid  and  heavy  all  day,  the  mor 
tar-shells  tearing  the  houses  into  fragments,  and  injuring  several 
citizens,  including  one  lady.  The  enemy,  in  front  of  the  Third 
Regiment,  were  slowly  but  surely  contracting  their  lines,  and  the 
fire  of  their  sharpshooters  was  particularly  accurate  and  deadly. 
Their  batteries  concentrated  their  fire  on  every  one  of  our  guns  that 
opened  on  their  lines,  and  speedily  dismounted  them.  A  splendid 
piece  of  ordnance,  protected  by  cotton  bales,  was  thus  dismounted 
by  the  skillful  fire  from  the  enemy's  rifled  pieces,  their  balls  striking 
the  bales,  upsetting  them  on  the  gun  carriage,  setting  fire  to  them 
at  the  same  time,  and  thus  burning  them  to  the  ground.  It  was  a 
fool-hardy  piece  of  business  to  expose  the  least  portion  of  the  person 
above  the  breastworks,  as  a  hundred  rifles  immediately  directed  their 
missiles  upon  the  man  thus  showing  himself.  No  less  than  five  can- 
noniers  were  thus  shot,  in  an  attempt  to  apply  a  lighted  fuse  to  the 
vent  of  a  loaded  gun. 

The  members  of  the  Third  Regiment  suffered  severely  in  their 
reckless  exposure  of  their  persons  to  the  fire  of  the  enemy's  sharp 
shooters,  and  the  list  of  casualties  rapidly  increased. 

In  conversation  with  the  enemy  (then  a  common  occurrence,  from 
the  proximity  of  the  lines),  a  member  of  Company  E,  by  the  name 
of  Masterton,  a  Missourian,  of  huge  dimension,  and  familiarly  known 
in  the  regiment  as  "  Shanghai,"  found  some  acquaintances,  and  was 
invited  into  the  enemy's  lines,  with  the  assurance  that  he  would  be 
allowed  to  return.  The  invitation  was  immediately  accepted,  and 
he  trusted  himself  to  the  honor  of  the  foe.  He  was  cordially  wel 
comed,  and  all  the  delicacies  and  substantiate,  which  the  Federals 
possessed  in  such  profusion,  were  furnished  him.  After  a  feast,  ac 
companied  with  a  sociable  chat  and  several  drinks,  he  was  permitted 
to  return,  very  favorably  impressed  with  the  generosity  of  the 
Yankees.  The  evening  chats,  after  the  day's  deadly  sharpshooting, 
revealed  the  fact  that  there  were  members  of  both  armies  who  were 
personally  acquainted,  and,  in  one  instance,  two  members  of  the 
Third  Regiment  found  a  brother  in  the  regiment  opposed  to  them. 
Such  instances,  not  uncommon  during  the  war,  were  not  calculated 
to  make  persons  of  the  same  family  and  blood  feel  over  comfortable. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  239 

22d.  The  bombardment  continued  unabated  from  all  sides  of  the 
beleaguered  city,  and  was  more  rapid  and  furious  than  heretofore. 
Nearly  all  the  artillery  along  the  lines  was  dismounted.  The  report 
of  a  single  gun  within  the  breastworks  was  the  signal  for  a  con 
centrated  fire  of  the  enemy's  batteries,  which  poured  a  perfect 
storm  of  solid  shot  and  shell  upon  the  fated  point,  resulting,  usually, 
in  the  destruction  of  the  battery,  and  killing  and  wounding  num 
bers  of  the  artillerymen. 

To  the  list  of  our  killed  and  wounded  were  added  the  names  of 
Leonard,  St.  Amant,  Guidici,  Ellis,  Chastant,  Druett,  Company  A ; 
Finley,  Company  B ;  Murray  and  Arnaud,  Company  G  ;  Duffy  and 
Brandenstein,  Company  K.  The  fire  was  terrific,  and  the  fearful  list 
of  casualties  in  the  regiment  much  depressed  the  spirits  of  the  men. 
The  enemy  made  an  assault  on  the  right  of  the  line,  but  were  re 
pulsed  with  terrible  slaughter,  and  two  hundred  of  them  taken 
prisoners.  This  creditable  affair  was  due  to  the  unflinching  bravery 
of  the  Second  Texas  Infantry — a  gallant  and  noble  regiment.  About 
10  o'clock  A.  M.,  four  gun-boats  steamed  up  the  river  from  below,  and 
engaged  our  batteries.  They  were  soon  compelled  to  retire,  badly 
damaged,  with  but  few  casualties  among  our  skillful  artillerists. 

23d.  The  morning  dawned  cloudy  and  lowering ;  a  light  rain 
fell  during  the  night,  and  summer  showers  during  the  day.  The 
shadows  of  night,  falling  over  the  beleaguered  city,  brought  with  it 
no  repose  to  the  weary  soldiers.  Heavy  details  were  made  to  re 
build  and  repair  those  portions  of  the  works  ploughed  up  and  torn 
down  by  the  heavy  firing  of  the  enemy's  batteries  during  the  day. 
It  was  no  light  task,  after  fighting  all  day  beneath  the  rays  of  the 
summer's  sun,  thus,  amid  the  shadows  of  night,  to  use  pick-axe, 
spade,  and  shovel,  carry  heavy  sand-bags,  strengthen  the  torn-down 
breastworks  with  heavy  timbers  and  cotton-bales,  in  order  to  be 
protected  during  the  approaching  day's  combat.  Rations,  at  this 
period,  were  plentiful,  and  were  distributed  to  the  men,  already  pre 
pared,  by  details  made  for  this  purpose.  General  Grant  sent  in  a 
flag  of  truce,  asking  permission  to  bury  his  dead,  which  were  lying 
unburied  in  thick  profusion  outside  of  the  intrench ments,  where  the 
enemy  had  assaulted  the  lines.  General  Pemberton  refused  to  grant 
the  request,  replying  that  the  battle  was  not  yet  decided.  The 
Federal  trains  and  troops  were  observed  moving  away  from  the 
camps,  while  rumors  prevailed  that  Johnson  was  fighting  their  rear 
at  Big  Black.  Yet  no  definite  news  of  succor  reached  the  besieged 
army. 

Among  the  casualties  in  the  regiment  this  day  were  :  Lieutenant 


24:0  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

J.  S.  Randolph,  S.  Kohn,  Company  A ;  Corporal  Scanlan,  Com. 
pany  F ;  Aleck  Garza,  Lieutenant  P.  Bassier,  Company  G- ;  J. 
McCowen,  L.  P.  Simps,  Lieutenant  J.  Stewart,  Company  II ;  J. 
Dunn,  Corporal  P.  Lawson,  W.  A.  McQuatters,  M.  V.  Ray,  Company 
I ;  S.  P.  Russ,  Company  K. 

24th.  Sunday  dawned  clear  and  beautiful,  yet  its  holy  quiet  was 
disturbed  by  the  fierce  storm  of  war,  which  swept  over  the  city  of 
hills,  and  thundered  in  angry  surges  around  its  whole  circumference. 
The  houses  of  worship  were  deserted,  and  women  and  children 
sought  shelter  from  the  exploding  shells  in  their  underground  habi 
tations.  The  enemy  had  succeeded  in  establishing  themselves  directly 
beneath  one  of  our  parapets,  above  which  stood  the  undaunted  and 
heroic  men  of  the  Third  Regiment.  They  immediately  commenced 
undermining  this  portion  of  the  line,  with  the  intention  of  blowing 
it  up.  As  the  sound  of  their  voices  could  be  distinctly  heard,  our 
brave  boys  began  to  annoy  them,  by  hurling  upon  them  every  species 
of  deadly  missle  which  human  ingenuity  could  invent.  12-pounder 
shells  were  dropped  over  the  breastworks  among  them,  and  kegs, 
filled  with  powder,  shells,  nails,  and  scraps  of  iron.  A  more  deadly, 
vindictive,  and  determined  species  of  warfare  was  never  waged. 
The  chief  aim  of  both  combatants  seemed  to  be  concentrated  in  the 
invention  of  apparatus  for  taking  human  life. 

25th.  Another  clear  and  hot  day,  and  a  continuation  of  the  usual 
music  along  the  lines.  In  the  afternoon,  a  flag  of  truce  was  sent 
into  the  lines,  requesting  a  cessation  of  hostilities  for  the  purpose  of 
burying  the  dead.  The  effluvia  from  the  putrefying  bodies  had  be 
come  almost  unbearable  to  friend  and  foe,  and  the  request  was 
granted,  to  continue  for  three  hours. 

Now  commenced  a  strange  spectacle  in  this  thrilling  drama  of 
war.  Flags  were  displayed  along  both  lines,  and  the  troops  thronged 
the  breastworks,  gaily  chatting  with  each  other,  discussing  the  issues 
of  the  war,  disputing  over  differences  of  opinion,  losses  in  the 
fight,  etc.  Numbers  of  the  Confederates  accepted  invitations  to 
visit  the  enemy's  lines,  where  they  were  hospitably  entertained  and 
warmly  welcomed.  They  were  abundantly  supplied  with  provi 
sions,  supplies  of  various  kinds,  and  liquors.  Of  course,  there  were 
numerous  laughable  and  interesting  incidents  resulting  from  these 
visits.  The  foe  were  exultant,  confident  of  success,  and  in  high 
spirits ;  the  Confederates  defiant,  undaunted  in  soul,  and  equally 
well  assured  of  a  successful  defense.  The  members  of  the  Third 
Regiment  found  numerous  acquaintances  and  relatives  among  the 
Ohio,  Illinois,  and  Missouri  regiments,  and  there  were  mutual  regrets 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  241 

that  the  issues  of  the  war  had  made  them  antagonistic  in  a  deadly 
struggle.  As  a  general  rule,  however,  the  Southerners  were  the 
least  regretful,  and  relied,  with  firm  confidence,  on  the  justice  of  their 
cause. 

Among  the  numerous  incidents  that  occurred,  none  seemed  to 
afford  more  amusement  than  the  one  related  of  Captain  F.  Gal 
lagher,  the  worthy  commissary  of  the  regiment.  The  Captain  had 
been  enjoying  the  hospitalities  of  a  Yankee  officer,  imbibing  his  fine 
liquors,  and  partaking  of  his  choice  viands.  As  they  shook  hands, 
previous  to  separating,  the  Federal  remarked  :  "  Good  day,  Captain; 
I  trust  we  shall  meet  soon  again  in  the  Union  of  old."  Captain  G., 
with  a  peculiar  expression  on  his  pleasant  face,  and  an  extra  side 
poise  of  his  head,  quickly  replied :  "  I  cannot  return  your  sentiment. 
The  only  union  which  you  and  I  will  enjoy,  I  hope,  will  be  in  king 
dom  come.  Good-bye,  sir." 

At  the  expiration  of  the  appointed  time,  the  men  were  all  back  in 
their  places.  The  stillness  which  had  superseded  the  fierce  uproar 
of  battle  seemed  strange  and  unnatural.  The  hours  of  peace  had 
scarcely  expired  ere  those  who  had  so  lately  intermingled  in  friendly 
intercourse  were  once  again  engaged  in  the  deadly  struggle.  Heavy 
mortars,  artillery  of  every  calibre,  and  small-arms,  once  more  with 
thunder  tones  awakened  the  slumbering  echoes  of  the  hills  surround 
ing  the  heroic  city  of  Yicksburg.  The  casualties  in  the  regiment 
were:  Wounded,  A.  J.  Powell,  Company  E,  Sergeant  E.  Jolly,  Com 
pany  K. 

26th.  Clear  and  warm.  The  fight  opened  very  early  and  kept 
up  very  steadily  all  day.  In  the  city  several  ladies  were  killed  and 
wounded  by  mortar  shells.  Sergeant  W.  W.  Gandy  mortally 
wounded. 

27th.  Clear  and  very  warm.  The  firing  was  very  brisk.  About  11 
o'clock  A.  M.,  the  gun-boats  approached  our  batteries,  both  from 
above  and  below,  while  all  around  the  lines  a  tremendous,  rapid 
cannonading  began.  The  roar  of  artillery  was  terrific  in  its  volume 
of  sound.  The  Cincinnati,  one  of  the  finest  iron-clads  in  the  enemy's 
fleet,  boldly  approached  our  upper  batteries,  but  was  repeatedly 
struck,  and  compelled  to  return.  As  she  turned  in  the  stream  a  ball 
penetrated  her  hull,  and  she  was  only  able  to  reach  a  sand  bar  in  the 
bend,  when  she  went  down.  This  combat  was  witnessed  by  hun 
dreds  of  ladies,  who  ascended  on  the  summits  of  the  most  prominent 
hills  in  Vicksburg.  There  were  loud  cheers,  the  waving  of  handker 
chiefs,  amid  general  exultation,  as  the  vessel  went  down.  Notwith 
standing,  positive  orders  prohibiting  the  fair  ladies  from  needlessly 
11 


A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

exposing  themselves  to  the  Hying  missiles,  they  fearlessly  sought 
some  prominent  position  to  witness  combats  whenever  an  opportu 
nity  presented  itself.  Many  despondent  soldiers  gained  renewed 
courage  from  the  example  thus  given  them  by  the  heroic  women  of 
the  Hill  City. 

This  disastrous  termination  of  the  gun-boat  fight  seemed  to  satisfy 
the  enemy  in  front,  and  they  were  quiet  during  the  remainder  of  the 
day.  The  intention  of  this  attack  was  for  the  gun-boats  to  engage 
and  silence  our  upper  batteries,  while  General  Sherman  assaulted  the 
works  on  the  extreme  left  of  the  line,  from  the  direction  of  Snyder's 
Bluff.  The  whole  plan  failed  most  signally.  A  large  number  of 
articles  from  the  sunken  boat  wTere  picked  up  in  the  river,  including 
hay,  clothing,  whisky,  a  medical  chest,  letters,  photographs,  etc. 
We  often  wonder  if  the  surgeon  of  the  Cincinnati,  who  so  comfort 
ably  penned  a  letter  to  his  affectionate  wife  as  the  boat  neared  our 
batteries,  escaped  unhurt.  His  missive  never  reached  its  intended 
destination,  but  fell  into  rebel  hands  to  be  perused  and  passed 
around.  It  was  both  well  written  and  interesting.  W.  Smith, 
Company  C,  wounded  to-day. 

28th.  Still  clear  and  warm.  A  courier  succeeded  in  reaching  the 
city  with  18,000  caps  which  were  much  needed.  Heretofore,  the 
Third  Louisiana  were  armed  with  the  Confederate  Mississippi  rifles 
furnished  them  at  Snyder's  Mills.  These  arms  were  almost  worth 
less,  often  exploding,  and  so  inefficient  that  the  enemy  boldly  exposed 
themselves,  and  taunted  the  men  for  their  unskillful  shooting.  On 
this  day,  however,  the  regiment  was  supplied  with  Enfield  rifles, 
English  manufacture,  and  Ely's  cartridges,  containing  a  peculiarly- 
shaped  elongated  ball,  of  the  finest  English  rifle  powder.  These 
guns  had  evaded  the  blockade  at  Charleston,  and  had  never  been 
unboxed.  Beside  the  rifles,  every  man  was  furnished  with  a  musket 
loaded  with  buckshot,  to  be  used  in  case  of  an  assault  and  in  close 
quarters.  The  men  were  so  elated  at  the  change  in  their  weapons 
that  they  began  a  brisk  fire  in  their  eagerness  to  test  their  quality. 
The  foe  soon  discovered  the  change,  and  there  was  a  hasty  retreat  to 
the  shelter  of  their  rifle-pits,  and  the  protection  of  their  earth 
works. 

They  wished  to  know  where  in  the  devil  the  men  procured  these 
guns,  and  were  by  no  means  choice  in  the  language  which  they  used 
against  England  and  English  manufacturers.  Not  a  single  casualty 
occurred  in  the  regiment.  As  night  approached  there  was  the  usual 
cessation  of  hostilities,  and  interchange  of  witticisms  and  general 
conversation  between  the  belligerents.  The  mortars  seldom  ceased 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  243 

their  work  all  day,  and  through  the  still  hours  of  the  night ;  spoke 
their  thunder  voices ;  and  the  concussions  of  their  explosions  shook 
the  buildings  to  their  very  foundations.  There  was  a  strange  fasci 
nation  in  watching  these  huge  missiles  at  night,  as  they  described 
their  graceful  curves  through  the  darkness,  exploding  with  a  sudden 
glare,  followed  by  the  strange  sounds  of  their  descending  fragments. 
The  spectacle  to  the  eyesight  was  quite  agreeable,  but  to  the  other 
senses  anything  but  pleasant.  Casualties,  wounded,  T.  D.  Downey, 
Company  E ;  P.  L.  Pennery,  Company  F.  The  day  closed  with  a 
spring  shower. 

29th.  Clear  and  warm.  The  cannonading  was  again  very  heavy  and 
continuous.  A  gun-boat  engaged  the  lower  batteries  without  any 
material  results.  There  were  no  casualties  in  the  regiment. 

30th.  The  day  was  clear  and  unusually  warm.  The  constant  daily 
fighting,  night  work,  and  disturbed  rest  began  to  exhibit  their  effects 
on  the  men.  They  were  physically  worn  out  and  much  reduced  in 
iiesh.  Rations  began  to  be  shortened,  and  for  the  first  time  a  mixture 
of  ground  peas  and  meal  was  issued.  This  food  was  very  unhealthy, 
as  it  was  almost  impossible  to  thoroughly  bake  the  mixture  so  that 
both  pea  fiour  and  meal  would  be  fit  for  consumption.  Yet  these  de- 
ficiences  were  heroicly  endured,  and  the  men  succeeded  by  an  ingen 
ious  application  of  the  culinary  art  in  rendering  this  unwholesome 
food  palatable,  calling  the  dish  "  Cush-cush."  Another  messenger 
arrived  with  despatches  and  a  suppl  y  of  percussion-caps.  While 
the  news  from  without  seemed  cheering,  not  an  item  of  intended 
succor  reached  the  undaunted  soldiers  who  so  heroically  defended 
Vicksburg  against  the  overwhelming  forces  of  the  enemy.  J.  N. 
Hewitt,  killed,  Company  B.  Wounded,  R.  Quiun,  Company  E. 

31st.  The  last  day  of  May,  the  month  of  smiling  skies  and  budding 
flowers.  There  was  a  clear  blue  sky  overhead,  the  usual  struggle 
around  the  works.  Sunday  brought  with  it  no  cessation  of  hostili 
ties.  Fourteen  long  days  and  wearisome  nights  had  passed  away 
and  still  no  prospects  of  relief  to  the  defiant  troops.  The  mortar 
fleet  concentrated  their  fire  on  the  court-house,  near  the  central  por 
tion  of  the  city.  The  building  was  occupied  by  a  company  of  Mis 
sissippi  militia.  One  of  the  huge  bombshells  finally  penetrated  into 
the  building,  and  exploded  with  tremendous  force,  killing  two  men 
and  wounding  several  others.  The  militia  incontinently  "  skedaddled" 
from  such  hot  quarters  to  a  more  secure  position. 

The  wreck  of  the  Cincinnati  was  boarded  by  a  daring  party  of 
Confederates,  who  set  fire  to  the  exposed  portion  of  the  boat.  This 
gallant  exploit  was  accomplished  without  any  loss.  Wounded,  S. 


244  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

Allain,  Company  A ;  D.  Shoemaker,  Company  B.  Up  to  this  date 
the  killed  and  wounded  of  the  regiment  numbered  fifty. 

June  1st  was  a  clear  and  unusually  warm  day.  The  men  sought 
shelter  from  the  sun's  scorching  rays  beneath  the  shade  of  out 
stretched  blankets,  and  in  small  excavations  and  huts  in  the  hill, 
sides.  It  seemed  wonderful  that  their  powers  of  physical  endurance 
did  not  succumb  to  the  accumulated  horrors  and  hardships  to  which 
they  were  exposed.  But  they  faltered  not,  either  in  spirit  or  deter 
mination.  A  deadly  shell  exploded  in  the  midst  of  Company  F, 
killing  Sergeant  J.  Roberts,  and  wounding  L.  J.  Singer,  P.  Sheridan, 
J.  Charlton,  and  F.  A.  Davis. 

2d.  Dawned  clear  and  warm.  Last  night  a  large  fire  occurred  in 
the  city,  the  result  of  incendiarism,  destroying  several  buildings. 
The  sky  was  overcast  with  dull,  leaden  clouds,  the  glare  of  the  con 
flagration,  the  bombs'  meteoric  course  through  the  air,  the  heavy 
concussions  of  the  mortars,  the  sharp  reports  of  rifled-guns,  and  the 
shrill  scream  of  the  shells,  made  up  a  grand  and  gloomy  scene  of 
warfare,  during  a  siege  such  as  is  seldom  witnessed.  Captain  J. 
Beggs,  appointed  Chief  of  the  Fire  Brigade,  was  promptly  on  hand 
directing  the  operations  which  soon  stayed  the  progress  of  the 
flames.  There  was  the  usual  heavy  cannonading  at  early  dawn,  and 
dusk.  During  the  hottest  portion  of  the  day  the  enemy  seemed 
content  to  seek  shelter  from  the  sun's  scorching  rays,  but  in  the 
morning  they  exercised  their  skill  by  pouring  a  rapid  and  heavy  fire 
into  the  breastworks. 

Killed :  A.  Carro,  F.  Escobeda,  Company  G ;  wounded :  J.  O. 
McCormick,  Company  I. 

3d.  The  day  opened  with  the  usual  music  of  sharpshooting  and 
cannonading.  Seventeen  days  and  nights  the  fierce  conflict  had 
continued,  and  still  no  definite  news  of  succor  reached  the  undaunted 
troops  who  held  at  bay  the  powerful  forces  of  the  foe.  True  reports 
reached  the  besieged,  that  General  J.  Johnston  was  concentrating 
troops  at  Clinton,  with  a  view  of  succoring  the  heroic  garrison  of 
Vicksburg,  yet  it  seemed  a  slender  thread  of  hope.  The  Third 
Regiment  was  becoming  sadly  decimated  in  numbers,  yet  the  sur 
vivors  fought  with  the  same  determined,  unconquerable,  valorous 
spirit  that  had  always  distinguished  them.  They  had  promised  to 
hold  that  portion  of  the  lines  intrusted  to  them,  and  accumulating 
disasters  unnerved  not  a  single  bravo  spirit  or  filled  a  single  soul 
with  despair.  The  tremendous  storm  of  iron  and  lead  continually 
poured  upon  them,  was  received  with  an  indifference  to  danger 
worthy  the  heroic  self-sacrificing  devotion  that  distinguished  the 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  245 

Spartans  at  Thermopolse.  Though  their  thinned  ranks  required  an 
increased  amount  of  exertion  and  labor,  and  consequently  augment 
ed  the  burden  of  their  accumulated  hardships,  there  were  no  com 
plaints,  a  reckless  disregard  to  peril,  and  a  spirit  of  heroism  mani 
festing  itself  by  the  men  composing  and  singing,  with  harmonious 
voices  and  enthusiastic  chorus,  songs  regarding  their  situation. 
What  a  strange  spectacle !  These  unsheltered,  half-fed  men,  amid 
the  din  and  uproar  of  a  furious  siege,  thus  manifesting  a  spirit  of 
reckless  disregard  for  their  perilous  surroundings.  The  sweetest 
strains  of  the  poet's  song,  the  most  brilliant  record  of  the  historian's 
pen,  the  most  forcible  and  elegant  language  ever  coined  from  the 
English  vocabulary  could  in  no  wise  do  justice  to  the  spirit  that 
animated  the  souls  of  this  gallant  body  of  Louisianians.  From  the 
plains  of  Missouri  to  the  dashing  waves  of  the  Gulf,  from  the 
mountain  ranges  of  Virginia  to  the  broad  prairies  of  Texas,  their 
fame  had  gone  over  the  land,  and  they  were  determined  that  no 
stain  should  now  mar  the  fair  escutcneon  of  their  bravery.  The  day 
was  cloudy,  and  the  sun  sank  below  the  western  horizon  behind  a 
bank  of  clouds. 

Wounded :  J.  W.  Blankenship,  Company  B. 

4th.  Heavy  firing,  as  customary.  Day  clear,  and  very  warm.  The 
ration  furnished  each  man  was  :  peas,  one-third  of  a  pound ;  meal, 
two-thirds  of  five-sixths  of  a  pound ;  beef,  one-half  of  a  pound,  in 
cluding  in  the  weight  bones  and  shanks ;  sugar,  lard,  soup,  and  salt 
in  like  proportions.  On  this  day  all  surplus  provisions  in  the  city 
were  seized,  and  rations  issued  to  citizens  and  soldiers  alike.  To 
the  perils  of  the  siege  began  now  to  be  added  the  prospect  of  famine. 
The  gaunt  skeleton  of  starvation  commenced  to  appear  among  the 
ranks  of  the  brave  defenders. 

It  seemed  wonderful  that  human  endurance  could  withstand  the 
accumulated  horrors  of  the  situation.  Living  on  this  slender  allow 
ance,  fighting  all  clay  in  the  hot  summer  sun,  and  at  night,  with 
pick-axe  and  spade,  repairing  the  destroyed  portions  of  the  line,  it 
passed  all  comprehension  how  the  men  endured  the  trying  ordeal. 

Wounded :  A.  Wrinkles,  Company  G. 

5th.  Warm  and  clear.  The  day  passed  as  usual.  A  citizen  and  a 
little  girl  killed  in  the  city  by  a  Parrott  shell  from  the  breastworks. 
The  gun-boats  above  and  below  remained  quietly  anchored  in  the 
stream,  evidently  indisposed  to  make  any  demonstrations  after  the 
warm  receptions  which  they  had  already  received.  Not  a  rumor 
was  afloat,  for  a  wonder. 

Wounded :  C.  Castex,  Company  G. 


246  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

6th.  The  morning  dawned  quite  clear.  A  few  summer  clouds 
floated  lazily  across  the  azure  sky,  and  the  day  eventually  became 
one  of  the  hottest  yet  experienced.  The  city  was  rife  with  rumors, 
among  which  was  the  report  of  Johnston  approaching  with  succor. 
The  story  almost  gained  full  credence  by  the  report  of  cannon  being 
heard  toward  Big  Black.  The  welcome  sounds  were  received  with 
shouts  along  the  whole  line.  Long,  anxiously,  eagerly  had  the  men 
been  listening  for  the  welcome  signal,  and  now  felt  as  if  relief  had 
assuredly  come.  Ah !  on  what  a  slender  thread  does  an  expectant 
soul  hang  its  feeble  hopes.  There  was  much  stir  among  the  enemy's 
troops,  and  large  numbers  began  to  move  toward  their  rear,  plainly 
indicating  that  danger  menaced  them  at  some  point.  The  Federals 
appeared  in  numbers  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  river,  firing  into 
the  city  with  long-range  rifles,  and  also  with  several  Parrott  guns 
planted  behind  the  levee.  This  addition  to  the  means  of  annoyance 
by  the  enemy,  made  it  a  very  dangerous  undertaking  for  the  pedes 
trian  to  travel  along  the  streets.  Our  river  batteries  immediately 
opened  on  the  foe,  shelling  in  turn  the  woods  and  embankment  on 
the  opposite  side,  everywhere  in  range  of  the  guns.  The  Yankees 
were  thus  compelled  to  become  very  wary  in  exposing  themselves. 
The  artillerymen  armed  themselves  with  Enfield  rifles,  and,  repairing 
to  the  river  bank,  kept  up  a  sharp  fight  with  them  across  the  turbid 
waters  of  the  stream.  There  were  no  casualties  resulting  from  this 
harmless  long-range  amusement. 

The  casualties  in  the  regiment  up  to  this  date  numbered  sixty-five. 

Wounded :  M.  Bossac,  Company  A ;  T.  N.  Dill,  Company  F ;  J. 
Connor,  Company  A. 

7th.  Very  hot,  and  clear.  The  mortars,  after  several  hours'  silence, 
opened  fire  again,  very  lively.  This  Sabbath-day  finished  the  third 
week  of  the  siege,  and  still  no  hopes  of  relief.  The  men  did  not 
lose  heart,  but  still  kept  in  fine  spirits.  The  members  of  the  regi 
ment  fought  to-day  with  renewed  vigor,  and  a  reckless  exposure  of 
their  persons,  killing  and  wounding  a  large  number  of  the  enemy. 
Heavy  firing  was  heard  west  of  the  Mississippi,  afterward  ascertained 
to  have  been  an  attack  on  the  Yankee  forces  at  Milliken's  Bend  by 
the  troops  of  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department. 

Wounded :  N.  Mora,  Company  G. 

8th.  Clear  and  warm.  The  struggle  raged  with  unabated  fury. 
The  enemy's  lines  were  slowly  but  surely  approaching  nearer  to  our 
own  breastworks,  and  the  struggle  was  daily  becoming  more  fierce 
and  deadly.  The  Federals  procured  a  car-frame,  which  they  placed 
on  wheels,  loading  it  with  cotton-bales.  They  pushed  this  along  the 


THIRD  LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  247 

Jackson  road  in  front  of  the  breastworks  held  by  the  Third  Regi 
ment.  Protected  by  this  novel,  movable  shelter,  they  constructed 
their  works  with  impunity,  and  with  almost  the  certainty  of  eventu 
ally  reaching  our  intrenchments.  Rifles  had  no  effect  on  the  cotton- 
bales,  and  there  was  not  a  single  piece  of  artillery  to  batter  them  down. 
They  were  not  a  hundred  yards  from  the  regiment,  and  the  men 
could  only  quietly  watch  their  operations,  and  anxiously  await  the 
approaching  hand-to-hand  struggle.  There  was  no  shrinking  or 
^nailing.  Danger  had  long  since  ceased  to  cause  any  fear,  and  fight 
ing  was  a  recreation  and  pastime  with  the  majority  of  the  men. 
Exploding  shells  and  whistling  bullets  attracted  but  little  notice. 
Even  death  had  become  so  familiar,  that  the  fall-  of  a  comrade  was 
looked  upon  with  almost  stoical  indifference ;  eliciting,  perhaps,  a 
monosyllabic  expression  of  pity,  and  most  generally  the  remark,  "  I 
wonder  who  will  be  the  next  one."  Men  are  not  naturally  indiffer 
ent  to  danger,  nor  do  their  hearts  usually  exhibit  such  stoical  indif 
ference  to  human  agony  and  suffering ;  yet  the  occurrence  of  daily 
scenes  of  horror  and  bloodshed,  through  which  they  passed,  the 
shadow  of  the  angel  of  death  constantly  hovering  over  them,  made 
them  undisturbed  spectators  of  every  occurrence ;  making  the  most  ot 
to-day,  heedless  of  the  morrow.  Though  constantly  threatened  with 
death,  they  pursued  with  eagerness  limited  occasions  for  amusement. 
The  song  and  jest  went  around,  fun  actually  being  coined  from  the 
danger  which  some  comrade  escaped,  or  attempted  to  nimbly  dodge. 

Wounded  seriously,  J.  M.  Burke,  Company  B. 

9th.  Clear  and  pleasant.  All  night  long  the  fight  was  kept  up. 
The  movable  breastwork  in  front  of  the  intrenchments  of  the  Third 
Louisiana,  became  a  perfect  annoyance  to  the  regiment,  and  various 
plans  were  proposed  for  its  destruction,  only  to  be  declared  unavail 
able.  Some  of  the  men  actually  proposed  to  make  a  raid  on  it,  and 
set  it  on  fire,  a  plan  which  would  have  been  the  height  of  madness. 

Finally,  a  happy  invention  suggested  itself  to  the  mind  of  Lieu 
tenant  W.  M.  Washburn,  of  Company  B.  He  thought  that  if  he 
could  fill  the  cavity  in  the  butt  of  the  Enfield  rifle  balls  with  some 
inflammable  material  which  would  ignite  by  being  fired  from  the 
rifle,  the  great  desideratum  would  be  obtained.  Thus,  procuring 
turpentine  and  cotton,  he  filled  the  ball  with  the  latter,  thoroughly 
saturated  with  the  former.  A  rifle  was  loaded,  and,  amid  the  utmost 
curiosity  and  interest,  fired  at  the  hated  object.  The  sharp  report 
was  followed  by  the  glittering  ball,  as  it  sped  from  the  breastworks 
straight  to  the  dark  mass  of  cotton-bales,  like  the  rapid  flight  of  a 
fire-fly.  Another  and  another  blazing  missile  was  sent  on  the  mission 


248  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

of  destruction,  with  apparently  no  satisfactory  results,  and  the 
attempt  was  abandoned  amid  a  general  disappointment.  The  men, 
save  those  on  guard,  sought  repose,  and  all  the  line  became  com 
paratively  quiet.  Suddenly  some  one  exclaimed,  "  I'll  be  d d  if 

that  thing  isn't  on  fire  P  The  whole  regiment  was  soon  stirring 
about,  like  a  hive  of  disturbed  bees.  Sure  enough,  smoke  was  seen 
issuing  from  the  dark  mass.  The  inventive  genius  of  Lieutenant 
"Washbum  had  proved  a  complete  success,  and  the  fire,  which  had 
smouldered  in  the  dense  mass  of  cotton,  was  about  bursting  forth. 
The  men  seized  their  rifles,  and  five  companies  were  immediately 
detailed  to  keep  up  a  constant  and  rapid  fire  over  the  top  and  at 
each  end  of  the  blazing  mass,  to  prevent  the  enemy  from  extinguish 
ing  the  flames.  They  discovered  the  destruction  which  threatened 
their  shelter,  and  made  impotent  attempts  to  extinguish  the  fire  with 
dirt  and  water.  But  as  the  light  increased,  the  least  exposure  of 
their  persons  made  the  unwary  foe  the  target  for  a  dozen  rifles,  hand 
led  by  skillful  marksmen. 

The  regiment  were  in  darkness,  while  the  blazing  pile  brought 
into  bold  outline  every  man  of  the  enemy  who  thoughtlessly  exposed 
himself  within  the  radius  of  the  light. 

The  rifles  of  the  regiment  sang  a  merry  tune,  as  the  brave  boys 
poured  a  constant  shower  of  bullets  above  and  around  the  great 
point  of  attraction,  which  was  soon  reduced  to  ashes  and  a  mass  of 
smouldering  embers.  How  the  men  cheered  and  taunted  the  foe, 
can  better  be  imagined  than  described.  The  achievement  was  a 
source  of  general  satisfaction  and  rejoicing.  The  Yankees  could  not 
understand  how  their  movable  breastwork  was  thus  given  to  des 
truction,  under  their  very  eyes. 

Edmonson,  Company  D  ;  T.  McFee,  Company  B,  and  E.  J.  Benton, 
Company  K,  were  killed  during  the  day.  The  night  was  unusually 
warm  and  cloudy. 

10th.  Ere  the  gray  dawn  it  began  to  rain,  and  soon  poured  down  in 
torrents.  There  was  no  cessation  of  the  rapid  and  heavy  firing 
around  the  lines.  Sunshine  and  storm  were  alike  impotent  to  stay 
the  progress  of  the  fight,  or  prevent  the  hail  of  deadly  missiles  from 
being  poured  upon  the  heroic  defenders  of  the  besieged  city.  All 
day  long  the  rain  fell,  filling  the  trenches  with  water,  and  thoroughly 
wetting  the  exposed,  unsheltered  troops.  The  scenes  at  the  breast 
works  beggared  description.  In  the  mud  and  water  the  men  fought 
on,  as  if  Heaven  did  not  add  to  their  sufferings  the  inconvenience 
and  horrors  of  their  situation.  As  usual,  they  made  sport  of  each 
other's  sufferings.  At  night  the  storm  culminated  into  a  terrific  and 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  249 

concentrated  fury.  The  long  weeks  of  heat,  and  the  constant  and 
heavy  cannonading,  had  impregnated  the  whole  atmosphere  with 
electricity,  which  now  burst  forth  with  tenfold  fury.  Lightning, 
with  its  jagged  edges  and  forked  tongues,  darted  from  the  dark 
masses  of  clouds  upon  the  city,  followed  by  the  deep,  sullen  and 
heavy  roll  of  Heaven's  sublime  artillery,  mingling  its  volume  of 
sound  with  the  scarcely  less  voluminous  and  heavy  thunder  which 
rolled  its  incessant  waves  around  the  fortifications.  A  scene  of  such 
sublime  and  soul-stirring  grandeur,  linking  together  man's  fierce  pas 
sions  and  Heaven's  dark  frowns,  could  scarcely  be  imagined,  much 
less  described.  The  Yankees  added  to  the  many  rumors  afloat,  by 
shouting  to  our  men  the  following  information,  "  You  had  to  get 
England  to  assist  you  after  all.  The  mouth  of  the  Mississippi  is 
blockaded,  and  Price  is  in  possession  of  Helena,  Ark.  We  have 
enough  men  at  Milliken's  Bend  to  keep  Kirby  Smith  in  check,  and 
after  we  capture  Vicksburg,  we  will  soon  drive  Price  out  of  his  com 
fortable  quarters."  The  men  only  hoped  the  half  of  the  information 
was  correct,  while  they  defiantly  scoffed  at  the  idea  of  Vicksburg 
ever  surrendering,  as  thus  proclaimed  so  confidently  by  the  enemy. 
A  number  of  the  regiment  visited  Vicksburg  and  the  camps,  to 
obtain  stove-pipes  and  tin-gutters  to  sharpshoot  through,  by  planting 
them  in  the  intrenchments. 

Wounded— P.  Grillet,  slightly ;  Company  D. 

llth.  Morning  dawned  cloudy.  The  day  cleared  off  cool  and 
pleasant.  Below  the  city  two  gun-boats  floated  lazily  at  anchor, 
while  above  not  a  vessel  was  in  sight.  In  front  of  the  Third  Louisi 
ana  the  enemy  planted  two  ten-inch  Columbiads,  scarcely  a  hundred 
yards  distant  from  the  lines.  These  terrible  missiles,  with  their 
heavy  scream  and  tremendous  explosion,  somewhat  startled  the  boys, 
being  a  new  and  unexpected  feature  in  the  siege,  and  necessarily  in 
creasing  the  already  accumulated  dangers  of  their  situation.  After 
knocking  the  breastworks  to  pieces,  and  exhibiting  their  force  and 
power,  the  enemy  commenced  a  systematic  method  of  practice,  so  as 
to  make  the  shells  deadly  missiles  of  destruction. 

So  skillful  and  expert  did  they  soon  become  in  handling  these 
huge  siege-pieces,  that  they  loaded  them  with  powder,  producing 
force  sufficient  to  only  propel  the  shells  over  the  breastworks,  and 
they  rolled  among  the  men,  producing  a  general  scramble  to  escape 
the  force  and  danger  of  their  explosion.  Frequently  they  rolled 
some  distance  down  the  hill-side  ere  exploding.  One  of  these  shells 
entered  one  of  the  shelters  excavated  in  the  hill  side,  where  a  group 
was  assembled,  composed  of  Colonel  Russell,  Lieutenants  Daven- 
11* 


250  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

port  and  Washburn,  and  several  members  of  Company  B.  Ere  the 
party  could  escape,  the  terrible  missile  exploded.  Strange  as  it 
may  appear,  but  one  of  the  party  was  killed  outright,  while  all  the 
remainder  were  wounded  and  bruised,  with  but  one  single  exception. 
Several  were  severely  burned  by  the  large  grains  of  powder  with 
which  the  shell  was  loaded,  making  torturing  but  not  dangerous 
wounds.  The  mere  idea  of  forcing  powder  into  a  fresh  burn  will 
afford  some  conception  of  the  agonizing,  excruciating  pain  of  this 
species  of  wounds. 

Among  the  casualties  this  day  were — Killed  :  Sergeant  B.  Brice, 
Sergeant  T.  Howell,  Company  B.  Wounded :  Lieutenant-Colonel 
S.  D.  Russell,  Lieutenants  J.  Davenport,  W.  M.  Washburn,  J.  M. 

Sharp,  Company  B ;  A.  Girod,  Company  I ;  Cole,  Company  F. 

Seventy-five  killed  and  wounded  to  this  date. 

12th.  Clear  and  pleasant.  The  siege-guns  were  particularly  de 
structive,  especially  among  the  right  companies  of  the  regiment. 
To-day,  our  troops  succeeded  in  getting  a  mortar  in  position,  in  a 
ravine  in  the  rear  of  the  line  of  fortifications,  but  did  not  use  it  then. 
No  prospects  of  assistance,  and  provisions  were  becoming  very 
scarce.  Fresh  beef  had  long  since  been  used  up,  and,  also,  a  large 
number  of  sheep,  and  the  troops  were  now  living  on  rations  of 
bacon.  The  labor  of  keeping  the  works  repaired  was  increased  by 
the  tremendous  power  and  destructive  force  of  the  shot  from  the 
siege-guns.  Yet  the  brave  men  did  not  despair,  or  give  way  in 
spirit,  under  these  trying  circumstances. 

Wounded  :  Captain  N.  M.  Middlebrook,  Lieutenant  Fagan,  Com 
pany  C  ;  Hubbard  and  C.  Quinelty,  Company  G. 

13th.  Clear  and  pleasant.  We  give  the  following  synopsis  of 
rumors  daily  circulated,  as  a  fair  specimen  of  the  means  used  to 
buoy  up  the  spirits  of  those  inclined  to  despair  in  the  midst  of  the 
gloom,  horrors,  and  hardships  of  the  siege :  Generals  Forrest  and 
Featherstone  destroy  nine  transports  in  the  river  loaded  with  pro 
visions  ;  General  Price  captures  two  gun- boats  above,  three  trans 
ports,  and  had  crossed  the  Mississippi  River  ;  General  Johnson  was 
at  Clinton,  Miss.,  with  25,000  troops,  and  positively  asserted  that  he 
was  approaching  to  succor  the  garrison.  Such  were  the  reports 
constantly  circulated,  and  usually  received,  with  a  large  margin  of 
allowance  for  their  falsity.  Our  mortar  opened  on  the  Yankees  late 
in  the  evening.  As  the  shell  marked  its  graceful  curve  in  the  air,  and 
suddenly  fell  into  the  enemy's  lines,  the  troops  cheered  most  vocif 
erously.  They  enjoyed,  to  the  fullest  extent,  the  astonishment  and 
consternation  of  the  Yankees.  But  a  few  shells,  however,  were  fired 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  251 

ere  the  enemy  concentrated  upon  the  point  whence  came  the  dan 
gerous  missiles,  the  fire  of  every  gun  within  easy  range  pouring  such 
a  storm  of  shell  upon  the  offending  mortar  as  caused  its  speedy 
abandonment.  It  was  almost  certain  death  to  remain  in  its  vicinity. 
This  mortar  was  used  only  a  short  time,  and  then  the  attempt  to 
render  it  effective  given  up.  A  heavy  siege-gun,  planted  near  the 
extreme  point  of  the  peninsula,  above  the  mortarfleet,  opened  fire 
on  Yicksburg,  but  with  inaccurate  range,  rendering  its  missiles 
harmless  visitors.  Nine  transports  came  down  the  river  loaded  with 
troops. 

No  casualties  in  the  regiment. 


CHAPTER    XXIX. 

SIEGE    CONTINUED. 

JUNE  14th.  Clear  and  warm.  The  cannonading  and  musketry 
continued  unabated.  Another  courier  reached  the  city  with  a  large 
supply  of  percussion-caps.  The  enemy  were  daily  reinforcing  their 
already  tremendous  army,  thus  increasing  their  available  strength, 
while  every  man  disabled  inside  of  the  lines  added  to  the  weakness 
of  the  defenders.  General  Grant's  facilities  for  prosecuting  the  siege 
to  a  successful  termination  were  thus  increased  to  an  almost  cer 
tainty,  and  he  could  afford  to  prolong  the  contest,  and  accomplish, 
by  starvation  and  a  lengthened  attack,  what  he  could  not  obtain  by 
either  stratagem,  skill,  or  brute  force.  A  successful  general  he  cer 
tainly  was ;  yet  the  accomplishment  of  his  plans  was  purely  the 
result  of  having  at  his  command  all  the  available  means  and  strength 
of  the  most  powerful  nation  on  the  face  of  the  globe.  Not  a  cir 
cumstance  transpired  within  our  lines  that  the  foe  did  not  know, 
and  they  were  informed  of  the  true  condition  of  affairs,  knowing 
full  well,  and  confidently  expecting,  that  the  gaunt  skeleton  of 
famine,  then  seizing  the  besieged  forces,  would  ultimately  prove  the 
conqueror.  They  needed  but  to  wait,  while  they  kept  up,  with  un 
abated  fury,  their  daily  and  nightly  attack  on  the  place.  All  around 
the  city  the  firing  was  very  lively  and  continuous,  even  from  the 
sharpshooters  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  river.  Thus  closed  the 
twenth-eighth  day  of  the  siege,  adding  to  our  list  of  wounded  and 
killed  the  names  of  William  Me  Guinness,  Company  A ;  S.W.  Sanders, 
Company  B ;  and  W.  Burns,  Company  H. 

Our  upper  river  batteries  exhibited  some  excellent  skill  in  firing 
on  the  wreck  of  the  Cincinnati,  to  prevent  the  enemy  from  work 
ing  on  it  and  moving  the  guns,  which  they  were  attempting  to 
accomplish. 

W.  McGuinness,  mentioned  among  the  wounded  to-day,  was  shot 
through  the  right  eye  as  he  was  looking  through  one  of  the  pipes 
planted  in  the  earth-works  to  observe  the  effects  of  his  shooting.  He 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  253 

•was  seen  by  one  of  the  enemy,  who  fired  at  him  with  deadly  aim. 
This  incident  is  given  to  show  how  close  the  combatants  were  to 
each  other,  and  with  what  certainty  each  party  used  their  rifles  upon 
the  smallest-sized  object  exposed  to  their  aim.  McGuinness  recov 
ered,  but  lost  his  eyesight  and  a  piece  of  the  bone  from  the  side  of 
his  face.  The  escape  from  death  was  miraculous. 

15th.  Day  cloudy  and  threatened  rain.  The  firing  was  very 
rapid,  and  shot  and  shells  flew  into  and  over  the  place  in  every  direc 
tion.  The  enemy  seemed  to  feel  in  a  particularly  lively  humor. 
They  made  a  charge  on  the  breastworks  held  by  the  Twenty-seventh 
Louisiana  Infantry,  on  the  left  of  the  position  occupied  by  the  Third 
Louisianians,  in  a  mass,  four  columns  deep.  They  were  repulsed, 
and  terribly  slaughtered.  A  small  rifle-gun,  planted  on  the  side  hill, 
immediately  in  the  rear  of  the  Third  Regiment,  enfiladed  their  ad 
vancing  columns,  making  great  gaps  in  the  ranks — as  the  balls  liter 
ally  ploughed  a  passage  through  their  dense  array  of  men.  This 
episode,  in  the  usual  monotony  of  the  siege,  infused  new  life  and 
spirit  into  the  Confederates.  They  felt  in  the  humor  for  a  despe 
rate  hand-to-hand  conflict,  knowing  that  they  would  have  an  oppor 
tunity  of  effectively  returning  some  of  the  blows  dealt  them.  But 
the  daily  loss  of  friends  and  comrades,  whose  fall  they  were  power 
less  to  avenge,  rendered  their  feelings  and  situation  anything  but 
agreeable. 

Heavy  cannonading  was  heard  toward  Snyder's  Mills  and  out 
side  of  the  lines,  thus  once  more  arousing  a  general  hope  of  speedy 
relief. 

Killed  :  Silas  Crane,  Company  E  ;  Edward  Douglas,  Company  I. 

The  close  of  the  day  threatened  rain,  which  was  not  a  desirable 
visitor  to  the  men. 

June  16th.  Dawned  pleasant,  light  summer  clouds  floating  gently 
across  the  empyrean.  The  firing  had  continued  all  night,  and  there 
was  no  diminution  in  its  rapidity  and  volume.  The  place,  as  usual, 
was  full  of  rumors  of  succor.  The  rations  furnished  the  men  were 
still  good ;  sufficient  to  keep  away  actual  starvation,  but  not  to  satisfy 
the  voracious  appetites  of  the  troops.  How  the  other  troops  felt,  we 
know  not,  but  the  boys  of  the  Third  Regiment  were  always  hungry. 
They  had  always  possessed  somewhat  fastidious  tastes,  and  were 
quite  epicurean  in  their  appetites,  which  they  had  heretofore  in 
dulged  to  their  fullest  extent.  Imagine,  then,  the  deprivation  which 
they  suffered,  the  great  self-denial  practiced  by  them  in  thus  receiv 
ing  the  scant  rations  daily  dealt  out  to  them,  without  murmuring 
over  their  condition.  True,  there  was  yearning  after  the  forbidden 


254  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

flesh-pots  of  "  Egypt,"  but  no  possibility  or  probability  of  their 
desire  after  forbidden  meats  being  satisfied. 

17th.  Morning  cloudy,  but  did  not  indicate  rain.  Cannonading 
brisk  and  very  rapid,  in  fact,  terriiic  in  the  afternoon.  The  day  was 
unusually  sultry.  Another  columbiad  opened  on  the  regiment  at 
close  range,  and  the  enemy's  lines  were  now  so  near,  that  scraps  of 
paper  could  be  thrown  by  the  combatants  into  each  other's  ranks. 
Thus,  a  Yankee  threw  a  "  hard-tack  "  biscuit  among  the  men  of  the 
regiment,  having  written  on  it  "  starvation."  The  visitor  was  imme 
diately  returned,  indorsed  as  follows,  u  Forty  days  rations,  and  no 
thanks  to  you." 

Despair  held  no  rule  in  the  brave  spirits  who  defended  this  portion 
of  the  work,  and  the  tremendous  mass  of  iron  poured  upon  them 
no  terrors  for  their  unflinching  souls.  Another  building  was  des 
troyed  by  lire,  caused  by  the  explosion  of  a  shell. 

Killed  :  Tom  Cobb,  Company  D. 

Wounded  :  L.  Flores,  Company  G. 

18th.  Cloudy  and  very  warm.  The  "  Vicksburg  Whig  "  published 
an  extra,  containing  a  few  items  concerning  the  siege  of  Port  Hudson. 
This  paper,  published  at  intervals,  was  printed  on  one  side  of  wall 
paper,  taken  from  the  sides  of  rooms.  It  was  very  small,  and  a 
great  curiosity  in  the  way  of  a  relic.  It  was  decidedly  an  "  illus 
trated"  sheet,  not  exactly  after  the  style  of  "Frank  Leslie"  and 
"  Harper  "  pictorials.  The  river  began  to  rise,  and  the  boats  below 
had  disappeared.  At  this  time  the  enemy  became  imbued  with  the 
mania  for  setting  fire  to  the  city,  and,  as  the  shells  exploded,  a  stream 
of  liquid  fire  descended  from  them.  At  night  they  presented  a  beau 
tiful  spectacle,  notwithstanding  their  destructive  mission.  No  seri 
ous  consequences  resulted  from  this  new  species  of  warfare. 

Wounded :  J.  Brenning,  Company  F  ;  J.  Gueton,  Company  G. 

19th.  Clear  and  warm.  The  tiring  was  comparatively  light.  The 
rations  issued  at  this  time  were :  flour,  one-quarter  of  a  pound ; 
rice  flour,  one-quarter  of  a  pound ;  peas  one-quarter  of  a  pound ; 
rice,  sugar  and  salt,  in  equally  small  proportions.  Tobacco  and 
bacon,  one-quarter  of  a  pound.  It  was  a  small  allowance  for  men  to 
sustain  life  with,  exposed  to  the  horrors  of  the  siege,  and  almost  con 
stantly  occupied.  Yet  the  troops  were  unusually  healthy.  The 
Parrot  guns  kept  up  an  annoying  fire  on  the  city,  from  the  opposite 
Bide  of  the  river.  Our  batteries  opened  on  them  with  little  effect,  as 
they  were  concealed  and  well-protected  by  the  levee.  One  of  these 
guns  produced  no  smoke  nor  report,  and  the  only  intimation  of 
danger  would  be  the  shrill  scream  of  an  ugly  shell.  It  was  generally 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  255 

believed  to  have  been  fired  with  gun-cotton.  No  serious  injury  re 
sulted  from  this  annoyance,  save  to  brick  walls  and  frame  build 
ings,  few  of  which  escaped  the  missiles  so  constantly  showered  upon 
the  place. 

20th.  Clear  and  warm.  At  early  dawn  every  gun  along  the  line 
suddenly  opened,  keeping  up  a  rapid  and  continuous  fire.  All  con 
curred  in  the  opinion  that  such  a  tremendous  cannonading  had  never 
been  equaled  in  their  experience,  and  the  volume  of  sound  surpassed 
anything  yet  heard.  It  seemed  as  if  heaven  and  earth  were  meeting 
in  a  fearful  shock,  and  the  earth  trembled  under  the  heavy  concus 
sions.  The  gun-boats  approached  from  below,  but  ere  reaching  the 
range  of  our  batteries,  retired  with  their  flags  at  half-mast,  causing 
much  speculation  as  to  the  meaning  of  this  manoeuvre.  The  can 
nonading  was  kept  up  steadily  all  day.  The  men  were  in  unusually 
fine  humor.  They  seemed  to  care  little  that  a  powerful  enemy  was 
within  arms-length  of  them,  and  that  their  flag  was  flaunting  its 
folds  in  their  very  faces. 

A  glance  over  the  breastworks  would  exhibit  a  panoramic  view  of 
a  large  portion  of  the  adjacent  works,  the  puffs  of  smoke  curling 
upward  from  the  guns,  used  with  such  dexterous  skill,  or  the  light, 
vapory  cloud  arising  from  the  discharged  rifles  of  the  sharpshooters. 
Such  a  glance  must  be  taken  very  hastily,  as  the  whiz  of  a  Minie- 
ball,  or  the  shrill  scream  of  a  shell,  admonished  the  spectator  that  he 
was  seen  and  already  made  a  target  of.  The  view,  under  such  cir 
cumstances,  was  perhaps  more  pleasant  to  the  eye  than  comfortable 
to  the  other  senses. 

During  the  day,  one  of  the  enemy  climbed  up  to  the  parapet  of 
the  Third  Louisiana  works,  and  boldly  looked  over,  no  doubt  with 
the  very  laudable  intention  of  having  a  good  view  of  affairs  within 
the  forbidden  ground.  He  paid  a  fearful  forfeit  for  his  temerity, 
being  shot  and  instantly  killed  by  one  of  the  regiment  standing  near 
the  spot  where  he  exposed  himself.  The  attempt  was  considered  an 
unusually  bold  and  fool-hardy  one.  The  combatants  watched  for 
each  other  with  the  keen-sightedness  of  an  eagle,  and  the  ferocity 
and  vigilance  of  a  tiger  seeking  prey.  Consequently,  the  least  expo 
sure  was  instantly  discovered,  and  as  quickly  brought  a  bullet  to  the 
spot.  Perhaps  volumes  could  be  filled  with  the  incidents  of  this 
siege ;  its  grotesque  and  mournful  scenes.  On  this  day  J.  Lee,  of 
Company  B,  received  his  death  wound,  being  shot  through  the  head 
with  a  Minie-ball.  He  was  carried  down  the  hill-side,  and  laid 
upon  the  ground,  near  the  spring  where  the  men  came  for  water. 
Comrades  were  passing  to  and  from  the  lines,  laughing,  talking 


256  A   SOUTHERN   EECORD. 

and  joking  with  each  other,  all  unmindful  of  the  dying  soldier. 
Bullets  whistled  by,  and  huge  shells  screamed  his  requiem,  cr 
thundered  his  dirge  in  their  fearful  explosions,  as  his  spirit  departed 
amid  the  din  of  the  fierce  conflict.  Yet,  such  a  scene  was  a  common 
occurrence,  and  men  whose  souls  once  thrilled  with  all  the  finer  sen 
sibilities  of  the  human  nature,  looked  on  with  stolid,  stocial  indif 
ference.  With  a  blanket  for  a  winding-sheet,  and  in  his  soiled  and 
battle-stained  garments,  the  brave  soldier  was  placed  in  the  hastily- 
dug  grave,  and  left  to  rest  in  peace. 

No  useless  coffin  inclosed  his  breast ; 

Nor  in  sheet  nor  in  shroud  we  hound  him  ; 
But  he  lay  like  a  warrior  taking  his  rest, 

With  his  tattered  blanket  around  him. 

Killed:  J.  Lee,  F.  M.  Howell,  Company  B ;  J.  W.  Naif,  Com 
pany  G. 

21st.  Cloudy  and  warm.  The  day's  observations  resulted  in  dis 
covering  little  apparent  change  in  the  situation.  On  the  right  hand 
bank,  up  the  river,  the  enemy's  trains  were  seen  on  a  sand-bar.  At 
a  distance  they  looked  like  a  hive  of  busy  bees,  and  were  doubtless 
engaged  in  conveying  stores  to  their  troops. 

The  Parrott  guns  still  annoyed  the  city,  and  were  heavily  fired  on 
by  our  batteries.  The  wreck  of  the  Cincinnati  was  again  shelled, 
the  enemy  being  discovered  at  work  on  it,  but  were  speedily  driven 
away  by  our  skillful  gunners.  Lieutenant  Holt,  of  Company  E, 
lying  in  a  tent  sick  in  the  commissary  camp,  was  shot  in  the  leg,  and 
badly  wounded  by  a  ball  shot  from  a  Belgian  rifle,  nearly  a  mile  dis 
tant.  A  courier  arrived  with  dispatches  and  caps.  He  had  floated 
down  the  Yazoo,  through  the  fleet,  on  a  plank,  and  was  taken  out 
of  the  water  completely  exhausted.  His  name,  unfortunately  un 
known,  assuredly  deserves  a  place  in  the  history  of  these  daily  events 
for  his  daring  and  determination  in  reaching  the  beleaguered  city. 
The  day  passed  without  any  unusual  occurrence,  and  no  light,  as  yet, 
glimmered  through  the  dark  cloud  which  hung  like  a  funeral  pall 
over  the  heroic  defenders  of  the  Hill  City. 

Killed:  L.  Stewart,  Company  I;  Corporal  Martin,  Company  II ; 
wounded  :  Lieutenant  U.  Babin,  Company  A ;  Lieutenant  R.  C.  Holt, 
Company  E  ;  Sergeant  George  Miller,  Company  E. 

22d.  Clear  and  warm.  The  sharpshooting  very  lively.  Artillery 
comparatively  quiet.  No  special  change  in  the  aspect  of  affairs. 
Two  regiments  on  the  right,  Texans,  we  believe,  charged  upon  the 
enemy  outside  the  lines,  capturing  a  colonel,  a  lieutenant-colonel,  a 


A  SOUTHERN  RECORD.  257 

captain,  and  eight  privates,  one  hundred  and  fifty  stand  of  arms, 
spades,  shovels,  etc. ;  killed  and  wounded  forty,  losing  only  eight 
men.  This  little  episode  of  the  siege  caused  much  excitement  and 
enthusiasm  along  the  whole  line.  The  day  closed  clear  and  cool. 

Killed  :  Charles  Dupuy,  Company  A. 

23d.  Cool,  clear,  and  pleasant.  The  activity  of  the  enemy  in 
creased.  They  opened  fire  on  the  city  from  a  100-pounder  Parrott 
gun,  planted  on  the  peninsula,  upward  of  three  miles  distant. 
Between  this  gun  and  our  lower  batteries  a  fierce  duel  occurred,  ex 
hibiting  some  splendid  skill- in  handling  heavy  artillery. 

A  feverish  excitement  and  expectation  prevailed  of  hearing  some 
thing  definite  from  General  Johnston,  and,  as  day  after  day  passed 
without  any  reliable  information  of  succor,  the  anxiety  became  in 
tense.  The  constantly  decreasing  rations  admonished  the  mcu  that 
the  siege  must  terminate  disastrously  if  succor  did  not  soon  reach 
them. 

Wounded :  S.  Kohn,  Company  A  ;  Alexander  Garza,  Company  G. 

24th.  Commenced  raining  in  the  night.  A  dark  and  lowering 
morning.  About  12  M.  at  night  a  heavy  skirmish  commenced  on 
the  right.  The  mortars  bellowed  forth  their  hoarse  thunder,  and 
four  rifled  batteries  kept  up  a  continual  fire  on  the  city  from  the 
front.  On  the  lower  river  batteries  a  heavy  concentrated  attack  was 
made,  resulting  harmlessly.  The  enemy  across  the  river  were  very 
busily  engaged  at  their  usual  sport.  The  balls  from  their  long-range 
rifles  penetrated  to  Washington  Street,  killing  one,  and  wounding 
two  men.  The  evening  was  beautiful,  and  the  moon  shed  its  soft 
effulgence  over  the  embattlements  of  the  beleaguered  city.  The 
wearied  mind  of  the  soldier,  with  all  the  surroundings  of  grim- 
visaged  war,  could  not  but  yield  to  the  witching  influence  of  the 
spell,  and  dream  of  home  and  the  loved  ones,  and  speculate  on  the 
probable  destiny  that  awaited  him.  Of  the  inward  soul-struggle  of 
these  heroic  soldiers  the  world  will  never  know.  The  hours  of  dark 
despair,  succeeded  by  the  presence  of  bright-winged  hope,  the 
treasured  thoughts  and  pleasant  dreams  of  the  future,  the  bitter 
agony  of  perishing  expectations,  all  the  inward  struggles  of  light 
and  darkness,  are  as  a  sealed  book  to  the  probing  gaze  of  the  world. 
But  one  mission  was  theirs ;  to  defend  to  the  last  extremity  the  city 
wherein  centred  all  their  pride.  Whether  they  did  so,  let  History 
record,  and  the  world  determine. 

25th.  Warm  and  hazy.  The  heavy  Parrott  gun  on  the  peninsula 
kept  up  a  destructive  fire  on  the  lower  portion  of  the  city,  doing 
terrible  execution  on  the  buildings.  Along  the  lines  it  was  com- 


258  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

paratively  quiet  early  in  the  day.  Poor  Amide  Hebert,  of  Company 
A,  was  brought  to  the  hospital  early  in  the  morning,  terribly  mangled 
by  a  rifled  24-pounder  shell.  He  was  conversing  with  some  friends 
in  the  Twenty-second  Louisiana  Regiment,  when  the  ball  struck  him. 
It  took  off  one  leg  at  the  hip  joint,  and  stripped  the  bone  of  the 
other  of  all  flesh  to  the  knee,  where  it  was  torn  away.  Horribly 
mangled  as  he  was,  he  conversed  in  cheerful  tones  with  his  friends. 
As  he  was  carried  into  the  hospital,  he  said  to  Dr.  Whitchead,  the 
regimental  physician,  "  Wouldn't  it  surprise  you,  Doctor,  if  I  should 
recover  ?"  Brave  fellow,  the  terrible  shock  to  his  nervous  system 
rendered  him  oblivious  to  all  pain.  He  lived  for  more  than  an  hour, 
and  then  fell  asleep,  from  which  there  is  no  waking,  adding  one  more 
to  the  list  of  noble  comrades  who  had  sacrificed  their  lives  in  defense 
of  cherished  principles.  A  more  shocking  spectacle  of  war's  butch 
ery  was  never  witnessed  than  the  mangled  living  body  of  Amide 
Hebert  presented. 

Just  after  noon  the  enemy  sprung  the  mine  beneath  the  Third 
Regiment,  which  they  had  been  so  long  preparing.  Six  Mississippi- 
aus,  working  in  the  counter-mine,  were  buried  alive  in  the  earth. 
This  counter-mine  counteracted  the  force  of  the  explosion.  The 
enemy  immediately  charged  in  heavy  columns  the  gap  made  in  the 
works,  when  a  fierce  hand-to-hand  struggle  ensued.  The  heroic  and 
brave  men  of  the  regiment,  sadly  depleted  in  numbers  as  they  were, 
undauntedly  faced  the  foe,  using  their  muskets  and  rifles  with  deadly 
effect  upon  the  close  columns  of  the  Yankees. 

While  desperately  fighting  the  fearful  odds  opposed  to  them,  suc 
cor  arrived.  The  Sixth  Missouri  Regiment,  of  Bo  wen's  Brigade, 
led  by  Colonel  Erwin,  suddenly  reinforced  the  regiment.  Well  the 
Louisianians  knew  their  old  comrades.  Shoulder  to  shoulder  had 
they  stood  together  on  many  hard-fought  fields,  unmoved,  uncon 
querable.  These  heroic  spirits  from  Louisiana  and  Missouri  loved 
each  other  as  brothers,  for  they  were  united  in  bonds  cemented  by  a 
fierce  baptism  of  blood.  They  rushed  into  the  desperate  melee  un 
falteringly,  and  after  a  short  struggle  succeeded  in  repulsing  the 
enemy  with  terrible  loss.  Colonel  Erwin  needlessly  and  rashly  ex 
posed  himself  by  jumping  on  the  top  of  the  intrenchments,  and 
calling  to  his  men,  "  Come  on,  my  brave  boys,  don't  let  the  Third 
Regiment  get  ahead  of  you  !"  They  were  his  last  words,  for  he  was 
killed  almost  instantly  by  the  deadly  aim  of  the  enemy's  sharp 
shooters.  Colonel  Erwin  was  a  grandson  of  Henry  Clay,  and  a  more 
noble,  gallant,  or  braver  man  never  led  a  regiment.  He  was  univers 
ally  beloved,  especially  by  the  heroic  troops  whom  he  commanded, 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  259 

and  his  death  was  bitterly  mourned.  Hand-grenades  were  freely 
used  in  this  fierce  struggle.  These  missiles  weigh  about  a  pound, 
are  an  oval-shaped  iron  shell,  a  little  larger  than  a  hen  egg,  and  filled 
with  powder.  In  one  end  is  a  small  cylinder,  at  the  bottom  of  which 
is  a  gun  tube,  on  which  is  placed  a  common  percussion  cap.  Into 
this  cylinder  is  inserted  a  small  rod,  having  a  flat  piece  of  circular 
iron  on  the  end,  about  tlfe  size  of  a  half  dollar.  This  rod  is  drawn 
out  to  its  full  length,  and  held  in  its  place  by  a  light  spring  pressing 
on  it.  The  reverse  end  of  the  shell  has  a  wooden  rod  inserted  in  it, 
about  six  inches  long,  and  feathered.  This  guides  the  shell.  When 
thrown,  the  grenade  usually  falls  on  the  bottom  attached  to  the  rod, 
which  is  forced  on  the  cap,  exploding  the  missile.  These  shells  were 
thrown  in  immense  quantities,  and  with  considerable  eifect.  Many 
were  caught  or  picked  up  when  not  exploding,  and  hurled  back 
upon  the  foe.  Numbers  struck  the  men,  exploding,  and  making 
frightful  wounds.  This  struggle  was  a  severe  test  upon  the  courage 
of  the  Third  Regiment,  but  they  met  the  Federals  with  their  usual 
determined  valor,  aided  by  the  gallant  Missourians,  whom  they  loved 
and  honored  as  fit  compeers  to  stand  by  their  side  in  the  deadly 
breach.  The  loss  of  the  regiment  in  this  brief  struggle  summed  up 
thirty  men,  of  which  the  following  is  an  imperfect  list : 

Wounded :  Major  D.  Pierson. 

Killed :  B.  Berry,  Co.  A ;  J.  Breaux,  Co.  A ;  Sergeant  J.  T.  Sharp, 
Co.  B ;  J.  C.  May,  Co.  B ;  -  -  Masterton,  Co.  E  ;  F.  Ray,  Co.  I ; 
Corporal  A.  Kelly,  J.  L.  Vaughan,  Co.  I. 

Wounded :  P.  C.  Wills,  Co.  A ;  Lieutenant  W.  P.  Renwick,  J.  M. 
Smith,  G.  Vaughn,  Co.  B;  G.  C.  Spillman,  R.  Cole,  Co.  C;  J. 
Merritt,  R.  C.  Hammett,  Co.  D  ;  J.  Myers,  Co.  E ;  George  Effner,  W. 
Hudson,  Co.  F ;  E.  Escobeda,  Lieutenant  Paul  Bossier,  Co.  G ;  Cor 
poral  J.  C.  Rice,  Corporal  G.  P.  Mouran,  H.  C.  Hough,  J.  Haines,  G. 
T.  McFarland,  M.  P.  Cartwright,  M.  Sandridge,  Co.  I. 

A  large  number  of  the  wounded  were  injured  by  the  hand-gren 
ades.  While  this  encounter  was  raging,  the  enemy's  batteries  in 
front  and  rear  kept  up  a  fierce  cannonading.  The  day  was  very 
warm,  and  the  sun  sank  below  the  horizon  looking  like  a  great  ball 
of  fire  through  the  bluish  haze — as  if  ashamed  to  shine  bright  and 
clear  upon  such  a  scene  of  butchery  and  bloodshed. 

26th.  Clear  and  warm.  The  firing  was  kept  up  very  lively,  as  usual. 
During  the  night  the  members  of  the  regiment  repaired  the  damage 
to  Fort  Beauregard,  and  were  ready  for  the  foe  once  more,  with 
spirits  as  determined  and  undaunted  as  ever.  The  enemy  succeeded 
in  enfilading  the  ditches,  and  compelled  the  men  to  leave  a  portion 


260  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

of  the  works,  while  they  fired  into  them.  The  Fifth  and  Sixth 
Missouri  Infantry  were  close  at  hand,  held  as  a  reserve  in  case  of 
another  attack.  The  Louisianians  needed  no  better  assistants.  In 
front,  the  Parrot  guns  were  used  with  some  effect,  killing  and  wound 
ing  several  gentlemen  and  ladies  in  the  city. 

Wounded :  Captain  W.  E.  Russell  and  W.  Badt,  Company  D. 

27th.  Cloudy  and  very  warm,  and  the  place  full  of  rumors.  At 
this  period,  the  fortieth  day  of  the  siege,  Vicksburg  presented  a  fear 
ful  spectacle,  having  the  appearance  of  being  visited  with  a  terrible 
scourge.  Signs  wrenched  from  their  fastenings  ;  houses  dilapidated 
and  in  ruins,  rent  and  torn  by  shot  and  shell ;  the  streets  barricaded 
with  earth-works,  and  defended  by  artillery,  over  which  lonely  sen 
tinels  kept  guard.  The  avenues  were  almost  deserted,  save  by 
hunger-pinched,  starving  and  wounded  soldiers,  or  guards  lying  on 
the  banquettes,  indifferent  to  the  screaming  and  exploding  shells.  The 
stores,  the  few  that  were  open,  looked  like  the  ghost  of  more  pros 
perous  times,  with  their  empty  shelves  and  scant  stock  of  goods, 
held  at  ruinous  prices.  "  Ginger  beer,"  "  sweet  cider,"  "  beer  for 
sale,"  glared  out  in  huge  letters  upon  placards  or  the  ends  of  bar 
rels,  seeming  the  only  relief  to  the  general  starvation.  It  would 
have  puzzled  a  scientific  druggist  to  have  determined  what  were 
the  ingredients  of  this  decoction  called  "  beer."  Palatial  residences 
were  crumbling  into  ruins,  the  walks  torn  up  by  mortar-shells,  the 
flower-beds,  once  blooming  in  all  the  regal  beauty  of  spring  loveli 
ness,  trodden  down,  the  shrubbery  neglected.  No  fair  hands  were 
there  to  trim  their  wanton  growth ;  no  light  footsteps  to  wander 
amid  nature's  blooming  exotics,  or  lovely  forms  seen  leaning  con 
fidingly  on  some  manly  arm,  while  rosy  lips  breathed  soft  words  of 
affection  and  trust.  Ah  !  no  ;  such  scenes  were  the  hallowed  memories 
of  halcyon  days  gone  by.  Fences  were  torn  down,  and  houses  pulled 
to  pieces  for  fire-wood.  Even  the  enclosures  around  the  remains  of  the 
revered  dead,  were  destroyed,  while  wagons  were  parked  around  the 
grave-yard,  horses  tramping  down  the  graves,  and  men  using  the 
tombstones  as  convenient  tables  for  their  scanty  meals,  or  a  couch  for 
an  uncertain  slumber.  Dogs  howled  through  the  streets  at  night ; 
cats  screamed  forth  their  hideous  cries ;  an  army  of  rats,  seeking 
food,  would  scamper  around  your  very  feet,  and  across  the  streets, 
and  over  the  pavements.  Lice  and  filth  covered  the  bodies  of  the 
soldiers.  Delicate  women,  and  little  children,  with  pale,  care-worn 
and  hunger-pinched  features,  peered  at  the  passer-by  with  wistful 
eyes,  from  the  caves  in  the  hill-sides.  Add  to  all  these  horrors,  so 
faintly  portrayed,  the  deep-toned  thunder  of  mortars  and  heavy  guns, 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  261 

the  shrill  whistle  of  rifle-shot,  or  the  duller  sound  of  flying  mor 
tar-shells  :  the  crash  of  buildings  torn  into  fragments ;  the  fearful 
detonation  of  the  explosions  shaking  heaven  and  earth  ;  the  hurtling 
masses  of  iron  continually  descending,  and  you  may  form  some 
conception  of  the  condition  of  the  city.  Human  language  is  impo 
tent  to  portray  the  true  situation  of  affairs.  Yet  such  in  reality 
were  some  of  the  scenes  of  the  siege.  At  the  breastworks  were  the 
tried  heroes.  Without  flinching  or  faltering,  our  brave  troops  con 
fronted  the  foe,  swearing,  with  unquailing  spirit,  never  to  surrender, 
and  rather  to  die  among  the  ruins  of  the  devoted  city  than  give  up 
the  place.  Such  a  spirit,  defiant  from  first  to  last,  was  worthier  a 
better  fate  than  that  which  eventually  befell  the  heroic  garrison. 

The  brave  men,  growing  daily  weaker  under  their  increasing  labors 
and  starvation,  began  to  complain  at  the  long  delayed  succor,  so  fre 
quently  announced  as  near  at  hand.  They  would  not  stop  to  reason 
on  the  subject.  Their  courageous  souls  could  perceive  no  brilliant  sun 
of  hope  breaking  through  the  dark  clouds  of  disaster  which  canopied 
them.  They  dreamed  not  of  the  difficulties  which  environed  the 
young  Confederacy,  and  that  an  all-powerful  enemy  was  contracting 
the  cordon  of  its  strength  around  it  on  all  sides,  threatening  it  with 
speedy  annihilation.  Even  with  such  a  leader  as  General  Joe  John 
ston,  it  required  time ;  long  weeks  of  constant,  unwearying  labor  to 
organize  an  army  sufficiently  powerful  to  successfully  attack  the 
enemy,  securely  posted  within  strong  intrenchments.  Already,  six 
weeks  of  unceasing  battle  had  passed  away — six  weeks  of  such  fight 
ing  as  the  world  had  seldom  witnessed ;  yet  the  enemy,  with  all 
their  material  and  appliances  for  conducting  the  siege  to  a  speedy 
and  successful  termination,  had  most  signally  failed  in  every  attempt. 
The  Spartan  band  of  Southern  heroes  held  their  position,  utterly 
regardless  of  the  furious  storm  of  grape,  canister,  shell  and  shot 
poured  upon  them  by  the  overwhelming  forces  of  the  Federals. 
With  the  demon  of  famine  gnawing  at  their  heart-strings,  they  still 
daily  shouted  their  defiance  to  the  assailants,  and  their  rifles  were  as 
actively  handled,  as  skillfully  aimed,  as  if  nearly  half  their  number 
were  not  disabled,  and  many  sleeping  peacefully  beneath  the  green 
turf,  above  which  rose  the  scream  of  shell,  all  the  horrid  din  and 
saturnalia  of  the  fierce  conflict.  The  undaunted  soul  would  ask, 
Ought  we  not  to  succeed  ?  Are  all  these  horrors,  sufferings  and 
fearful  sacrifices  to  bring  forth  no  fruit,  no  strength  and  hope  for 
coming  days  ?  Ah !  a  mysterious  fate  had  issued  its  decree,  and 
mortal  vision  could  not  see  the  result  of  its  decision. 
Wounded  :  F.  Hargrove,  Company  H. 


262  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

28th.  Another  Sabbath  morn.  The  golden  sunlight  mellowed 
with  it3  brilliant  light  the  hill-tops  and  the  dark-green  foliage  of 
the  trees.  Birds  caroled  their  matin  songs,  as  if  war  was  not  hold 
ing  its  high  carnival  within  and  around  the  besieged  city.  The 
mind  would  forget  the  unceasing  din  of  battle,  and  soar  away  into 
the  realms  of  fancy.  The  hill-sides  have  a  soft  carpeting  of  emerald 
sward,  upon  which  the  soldier  casts  his  wearied  body.  He  has  for 
gotten  his  surroundings,  is  oblivious  to  the  screaming  shells  and 
singing  bullets.  A  smile  flits  across  his  bronzed  features,  as  memory 
exhibits  one  of  the  beautiful  pictures  of  the  past.  The  light  of 
lustrous  blue  eyes  is  beaming  upon  him  with  a  soft  tenderness  beyond 
portrayal.  Look,  weary  soldier,  into  the  liquid  depths;  gaze  once 
more  upon  the  exquisite  loveliness  of  the  fair  face  so  beautifully 
shaded  by  a  profusion  of  glossy,  dark  curls.  See  again  those  coral 
lips  breaking  into  a  loving  smile,  rippling  in  laughing  wavelets  over 
the  whole  face ;  recall  again  their  soft  pressure  upon  your  own  lips ; 
drink  in  with  deep  inspiration  all  the  beauty  of  the  picture  which 
imagination  now  paints  from  the  realities  of  the  past.  Dream  on, 
oh  heroic  spirit,  for  ere  the  sun  shall  have  reached  the  Western  hori 
zon,  thou  shalt  fill  a  hero's  honored  grave ;  while  her  you  have  been 
dreaming  about  shall  weep  with  uncontrollable  anguish  over  thy 
fate,  or,  perchance,  in  days  hereafter,  come  with  flowers  and  strew 
them  orer  thy  humble  tomb,  or  plant  them  there  to  flourish  as  a 
token  of  her  remembrance  and  constancy,  their  rich  fragrance  filling 
the  air  with  sweetness,  above  the  lowly  mound  where  reposes  thy 
earthly  remains ! 

The  brilliant  morn  soon  settled  into  a  noon  of  unusual  warmth. 
One  of  the  lower  batteries  in  front  succeeded  in  silencing  a  Parrott 
gun  across  the  river,  and  a  lively  shelling  in  the  woods  compelled 
the  sharp-shooters  to  beat  a  hasty  retreat. 

The  Catholics  of  the  city  held  services  in  their  Cathedral,  not 
withstanding  the  danger  of  such  a  proceeding.  As  the  congrega 
tion  was  emerging  from  the  building,  the  Argus-eyed  enemy  across 
the  river  discovered  the  unusual  number  of  people  in  the  streets, 
and  instantly  opened  on  them  with  a  Parrott  gun.  As  the  shells 
came  screaming  wickedly  through  the  streets,  exploding  or  entering 
the  building,  men,  women  and  children  hastily  sought  shelter  to 
escape  the  danger.  Several  persons  were  struck  by  fragments  of 
shells,  but,  fortunately,  no  one  killed.  Such  an  unheard-of,  ruthless 
and  barbarous  method  of  warfare  as  training  a  battery  of  rifled 
cannon  upon  an  assembly  of  unarmed  men  and  worshiping  women, 
is  unparalleled  in  the  annals  of  history. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  263 

Meat  at  this  period  be3ame  exhausted,  and  orders  were  issued  to 
select  the  finest  and  fattest  mules  within  the  lines,  and  slaughter 
them,  for  the  purpose  of  issuing  their  flesh  as  food  to  the  troops ; 
a  half  pound  per  man  was  the  ration  of  this  new  species  of  flesh. 
Several  Spaniards  belonging  to  the  Texas  regiments  were  also  busily 
occupied  in  jerking  this  meat  for  future  consumption. 

This  meat  was  also  supplied  to  the  citizens  from  the  market,  and 
sold  for  fifty  cents  a  pound.  The  first  meal  which  we  remember  to 
have  eaten  of  mule-flesh  was  at  the  house  of  Mrs.  Robert  Hender 
son,  whose  husband  commanded  one  of  the  heavy  batteries  on  the 
river.  We  assure  the  ignorant  reader  that  the  food  was  consumed 
with  a  keen  relish  worthy  the  appetite  of  a  gourmand,  or  an  epicure 
over  the  most  dainty  repast.  Mule-flesh,  if  the  animal  is  in  good 
condition,  is  coarse-grained  and  darker  than  beef,  but  really  deli 
cious,  sweet  and  juicy ;  at  least  such  has  experience  in  testing  its 
quality  proven  it  to  be.  Besides  this  meat,  traps  were  set  for  rats, 
which  wore  consumed  in  such  numbers  that,  ere  the  termination  of 
the  siege,  they  actually  became  a  scarcity.  Hunger  will  demoralize 
the  most  fastidious  tastes,  and  quantity,  not  quality  of  food,  becomes 
the  great  desideratum. 

Mortally  wounded :  L.  J.  Benton,  Co.  K.  Severely  wounded  : 
Sergeant  J.  A.  Derboune,  Co.  G. 

29th.  Very  warm  ;  floating  clouds  overhead.  The  author  made  a 
hearty  breakfast  on  fried  rats,  whose  flesh  he  found  very  good,  and 
fully  equal  to  that  of  squirrels.  The  thought  of  such  food  may  be 
actually  nauseating  to  many  of  the  readers  of  this  record,  yet,  let 
starvation  with  its  skeleton  form  visit  them,  and  all  qualms  would 
speedily  vanish,  and  any  food,  to  satisfy  hunger,  be  voraciously 
devoured,  and  considered  as  sweet  manna.  It  is  a  difficult  matter 
for  persons  surrounded  with  abundance  to  realize  the  feeling  pro 
duced  by  extreme  hunger  ;  no  pen-picture,  no  grouping  of  words  in 
all  their  forcibleness  and  power,  can  convey  to  those  who  have  not 
experienced  the  sensation  produced  by  this  gaunt  visitor.  It  must 
be  felt  to  be  realized  ;  and  if  once  felt,  the  ide-a  of  eating  dogs,  cats, 
rats,  or  even  human  flesh,  would  contain  nothing  repulsive  or  repug 
nant  to  the  feelings. 

The  firing  on  the  lines  was  not  so  brisk  as  usual.  The  enemy 
were  once  more  undermining  the  works  held  by  the  Third  Louisiana 
Infantry,  and  the  men  went  spiritedly  at  work  digging  a  counter 
mine.  The  laborers  were  so  near  each  other  that  the  strokes  of  the 
pickaxes  could  be  distinctly  heard,  as  well  as  the  sound  of  the  voices. 
Thus  the  deadly  struggle  went  on,  the  brave  boys  never  once  dream- 


264  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

ing  of  despairing  or  giving  up,  although  fighting  over  a  volcano 
which  at  any  moment  might  burst  forth  and  ingulf  them  in  a  general 
ruin.  The  men  of  the  regiment  knew  not  what  fear  meant,  and 
would  not  relinquish  their  position  or  falter  in  their  defence  of  this 
place  intrusted  to  them,  though  the  whole  earth  beneath  was  a  huge 
powder-magazine,  requiring  only  a  spark  of  fire  to  hurl  them  into 
eternity.  Theirs  was  a  spirit  of  unfaltering  bravery,  which  no  ter 
rors  could  for  an  instant  make  quail.  Dauntless,  their  spirits  soared 
towering  above  the  accidents,  the  uncertainties  of  their  existence. 
What  more  could  be  required  of  mere  men,  subject  to  all  the  chances 
and  changes  of  mortality,  calmly  slumbering  on  the  verge  of  a  fearful 
precipice  of  destruction  ? 

A  large  number  of  skiffs  were  constructed  and  conveyed  to  the 
lower  portion  of  the  town.  Speculation  became  rife  as  to  the  mean 
ing  of  this  new  movement.  What  could  it  possibly  mean  ?  The 
conviction  seemed  finally  to  settle  on  every  mind  that  a  desperate 
attempt  would  soon  be  made  to  cross  the  river  with  the  army,  and 
escape  into  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department.  Whatever  may  have 
been  the  intention  in  building  these  boats,  it  was  never  divulged, 
and  the  accomplishment  of  such  a  design  never  carried  into  effect,  or 
even  attempted.  It  would  have  been  an  insane  enterprise  in  the 
presence  of  the  enemy's  gun-boats  and  troops. 

The  Federal  sharp-shooters  very  impudently  wished  to  know  how 
we  liked  mule-meat,  proving  conclusively  that  they  were  constantly 
informed  of  every  event  which  occurred  within  the  lines.  Their 
question,  however,  was  responded  to  in  not  very  flattering  or  com 
plimentary  language.  Thus  affairs  daily  grew  darker,  and  the  men 
actually  raved  at  the  idea  of  surrendering,  after  their  long,  gallant, 
and  heroic  defence.  Their  spirits  were  unconquered — unconquer 
able.  The  nights  were  brilliantly  beautiful,  with  their  flood  of  moon 
light  silvering  the  embattlements  and  hill-sides—such  nights  as  the 
poetr>  make  immortal,  and  kindred  spirits  meet  to  whisper  fond 
words  of  love.  Yet  here  how  different !  The  silvery  radiance  only 
rendered  more  fatal  the  rifle's  deadly  aim,  or  darkened  the  flitting 
light  of  the  huge  bombs,  as  they  described  their  graceful  curves 
through  the  air  on  the  mission  of  death  and  destruction. 

Mortally  wounded  :  D.  Echols,  Company  K.  Slightly  wounded  : 
H.  Finlay,  Company  K. 

30th.  The  last  day  of  June.  The  sUn  shone  brightly,  while  groups 
of  summer-clouds  floated  gently  across  the  heavens.  The  sharp- 
shooting  was  slow  but  constant — unceasing  all  day.  The  gun-boats 
approached  the  terminus  of  the  lines  below,  and  poured  a  concen- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  265 

trated  fire  of  shells  into  the  rntrenchments,  doing  little  damage  or 
injury.  Across  the  river,  the  peninsula  looked  lonely  and  deserted. 
The  general  apathy  in  fighting  appeared  ominous,  and  a  dull,  leaden 
weight  unaccountably  oppressed  the  mind,  and  gave  a  gloomy  hue 
to  every  object.  The  hospitals  were  sad  scenes  of  agony,  suffering, 
and  death,  with  their  numerous  occupants.  Ah!  how  the  heart 
grew  mournful  with  heavy  feelings ;  how  the  soul  filled  with  tears 
as  the  spectator  wandered  slowly  through  the  rows  of  rough  cots, 
and  gazed  upon  the  suffering,  dying  occupants !  Misery,  such  as  one 
cares  seldom  to  witness,  was  seen  on  all  sides — these  heroic  men, 
slowly  wasting  away  under  disease,  the  agony  of  torturing  wounds, 
augmented  by  the  need  of  proper  nourishment  and  medicines.  In 
a  tent,  on  the  outskirts  of  the  hospital  grounds,  lay  a  dying  soldier. 
His  brother  had  passed  away  to  the  unseen  shores  of  eternity  but  a 
few  days  previously.  An  unconsolable  grief  filled  the  heart  of  the 
survivor,  and  the  fatal  shell  which  struck  him  knelled  his  own  death- 
doom.  Sympathizing  friends  gathered  around  him,  and  with  soft 
words  soothed  his  dying  hours,  as  he  incessantly  talked  of  the  brother 
gone  before  him.  Ah  !  those  touching  scenes  in  the  hospitals ! 
What  pen  shall  fitly  portray  them  ?  Who  shall  give  life  by  words 
to  the  groups  of  sorrowing  faces,  gathered  near  some  dying  soldier, 
as  they  conversed  about  the  agony  of  the  gray-haired  father  and 
mother  far  away,  or  the  wild  grief  of  some  doting  sister  ?  Then 
the  humble  burial !  A  rough  pine  coffin,  made  of  boards,  torn  from 
some  old  building  or  fence,  wherein  the  remains  are  placed.  Some 
comrade  gently  severs  a  lock  of  hair  from  the  tangled  mass,  saying, 
as  he  places  it  in  the  bosom  of  his  soiled,  gray  jacket,  "  I  will  carry 
this  home  to  the  loved  ones  there ;  it  will  be  a  treasured  relic  for 
the  grieving  relatives."  After  long  months  that  relic  reaches  its 
destination — a  memento  of  a  comrade's  faithfulness  to  his  feelings 
when  he  stood  over  the  silent  form  of  his  fellow-soldier. 

The  humble  grave  is  dug ;  the  coffin  reverently  placed  therein  by 
comrades,  with  uncovered  heads ;  then  filled  up,  the  hurtling  shot, 
screaming  shells,  and  booming  guns  being  the  only  service  for  the 
dead.  A  plain  board,  roughly  lettered,  is  placed  at  the  end  of  the 
freshly-made  mound,  to  mark  the  spot  where,  "  after  life's  fitful 
fever,"  sleeps  one  of  the  heroes  of  Vicksburg.  Ah  !  how  many  such 
scenes  have  we  witnessed  1  How  vividly  do  they  return  in  all  their 
moumfulness  and  distinctness,  with  the  accompanying  dirge  of  war's 
fearful  requiem  ! 

July  1st.  The  month  made  famous  in  the  annals  of  American  his 
tory.  In  the  present  century,  rendered  still  more  noted  by  some  of 
12 


266  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

the  most  glorious,  as  well  as  most  mournful,  events  connected  with 
the  late  desperate  struggle.  Could  the  framers  of  the  Constitution 
of  the  Western  Republic  have  gazed  upon  the  scenes  transpiring  in 
the  land,  their  hearts  would  have  despaired  of  the  final  success  of 
their  patriotic  endeavors.  But  the  end  is  not  yet.  This  dawning 
of  a  new  month  still  found  the  billows  of  angry  strife  thundering 
in  foaming  crests  around  the  heroic  city.  A  clear  sky  was  overhead, 
and  the  sun  poured  down  a  golden  flood  of  intense,  suffocating  heat 
upon  the  combatants.  Again  the  gun-boats  below  opened  a  lively 
cannonading  upon  the  intrenchments.  Elsewhere  around  the  lines 
everything  was  comparatively  quiet.  At  2  r.  M.  the  enemy  exploded 
the  mine  beneath  the  works  occupied  by  the  Third  Louisiana  In 
fantry.  A  huge  mass  of  earth  suddenly,  and  with  tremendous  force 
and  a  terrible  explosion,  flew  upwards,  and  descended  with  mighty 
power  upon  the  gallant  defenders,  burying  numbers  beneath  its  falling 
fragments,  bruising  and  mangling  them  most  horribly.  It  seemed  as  if 
all  hell  had  suddenly  yawned  upon  the  devoted  band,  and  vomited 
forth  its  sulphurous  fire  and  smoke  upon  them.  The  regiment,  at 
this  time,  was  supported  by  the  First,  Fifth,  and  Sixth  Missouri 
Infantry,  and  upwards  of  a  hundred  were  killed  and  wounded. 
Numbers  were  shocked  and  bruised,  but  not  sufficiently  to  more  than 
paralyze  them  for  a  few  moments.  The  scene  that  followed  beggared 
description.  At  first  there  was  a  general  rush  to  escape  the  huge 
mass  of  descending  earth.  Then  the  survivors,  without  halting  to 
inquire  who  had  fallen,  hastened  to  the  immense  gap  in  the  works  to 
repel  the  anticipated  assault.  The  enemy,  taught  by  a  dearly- 
bought  experience,  made  no  attempt  to  enter  the  opening,  not 
daring  to  assault  the  intrepid  defenders.  An  immense  number  of 
12-pounder  shells,  thrown  from  wooden  mortars,  descended  among 
the  troops,  doing  fearful  execution.  The  fire  was  tremendous,  rapid, 
and  concentrated,  yet  there  was  no  flinching  among  those  brave 
Southerners.  The  undaunted  Missourians  stood  shoulder  to  shoulder 
with  the  intrepid  Louisianians.  These  heroes  of  Oak  Hills,  Elk 
Horn,  and  Corinth  could  not  flinch  under  the  most  scathing  fire. 
They  had  already  been  tried  in  the  refining  crucible  of  danger,  and 
found  composed  of  the  purest  metal  of  bravery.  Steel  hearts  and 
avenging  arms  knew  no  fear. 

The  wounded  and  dying  were  speedily  conveyed  to  the  hospitals 
for  attendance.  The  spectacle  was  horrible  in  the  extreme.  Stretched 
out  on  the  green-sward,  with  no  shelter  save  the  overshadowing  trees, 
with  the  bright  sunlight  peering  in  tremulous  rays  through  the  in 
tervening  foliage,  lay  these  men,  suffering  from  every  conceivable 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  267 

wound  known  in  war.  Some  writhing  in  the  agonies  of  death, 
others  bruised,  torn,  mangled,  and  lacerated  by  shell  and  shot,  while 
others  were  blackened  and  burned  from  the  effects  of  the  explosion. 
Gazing  upon  this  scene  of  human  agony  and  suffering,  the  emerald 
trees,  green-sward,  smiling  skies,  and  golden  sunlight  seemed  a  fear 
ful  mockery.  Surgeons,  with  sleeves  rolled  up  to  their  elbows,  hands, 
arms,  and  shirts  red  with  human  gore,  hastened  hither  and  thither, 
or  were  using  their  keen-edged  instruments  in  amputating  some 
shattered  limb,  extracting  balls  and  fragments  of  shells  from  the 
lacerated  bodies,  or  probing  some  ghastly  wound  of  the  sufferers. 
Men,  fearfully  mangled  in  body  and  limbs,  groaning  with  agony, 
some  clutching  the  green-sward  in  their  death-struggles,  others  with 
crushed,  bruised  bodies  lingering  in  speechless  torment !  Such  were 
the  scenes  of  war  on  this  hot  July  afternoon.  It  seemed  as  if  some 
avenging  Nemesis  must  descend  and  curse  the  land  where  such 
scenes  were  enacted,  saving  an  heroic  people  from  the  relentless  pur 
suit  of  the  avenging  hand  of  fate.  Yet  the  end  was  not  yet.  What 
a  record  for  the  opening  of  a  new  month !  The  sun  sank  in  the 
west  in  a  cloudless  sky,  and  quiet  reigned  over  the  besieged  city. 
The  moon  rose  majestically  in  the  eastern  horizon,  tinging  the  turbid 
waters  of  the  Mississippi  with  its  bright,  silvery  sheen,  while  the 
taunts  of  the  foe  echoed  across  its  eddying  surface,  as  Night  once 
again  spread  her  dark  mantle  over  the  earth. 

Killed :  Robert  Hammett,  Co.  D ;  B.  F.  Hickman,  Co.  K ;  John 
Reese,  Joe  Bird,  Co.  H ;  L.  Flores,  Co.  G. 

Wounded:  Captain  J.  Kinney,  M.  O'Brien,  Co.  A;  H.Kelly,  J.  H. 
Johnson,  J.  Totle,  F.  M.  Worley,  M.  Higginbotham,  A.  Williams,  Co. 
B ;  J.  M.  McBride,  W.  J.  Carson,  W.  Evans,  J.  Tedley,  N.  Moody, 
Co.  C ;  H.  Duke,  J.  McDaniel,  J.  Fonteneau,  Co.  D ;  -  —  Movin, 
Co.  G ;  Captain  Joe  Johnson,  P.  Smith,  D.  Bliss,  Co.  I. 

3d.  The  morning  dawned  clear  amid  the  roar  of  guns,  the  ex 
plosion  of  shells,  and  the  angry  scream  of  solid  shot.  The  enemy 
opened  very  briskly  from  mortars,  columbiads,  andParrott  guns,  and 
kept  up  a  hot  fire  on  the  city  and  lines.  Provisions  were  very  scarce, 
and  murmurs  of  discontent  began  to  be  heard,  but  only  among  a 
few,  whose  patriotism  and  devotion  gave  way  under  the  accumulat 
ing  horrors  and  the  gnawings  of  hunger.  The  majority  of  the 
troops  were  as  eager,  undaunted,  and  unconquered  as  when  the  enemy 
first  appeared,  expressing  a  willingness  and  determination  to  hold 
the  place  as  long  as  a  mouthful  of  anything  eatable  remained  to  sus 
tain  life.  It  was  the  hour  that  tried  the  souls  of  men.  The  dark 
cloud  of  disaster  hovered  over  the  devoted  garrison,  and  fanned 


268  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

their  courageous  souls  with  the  shadow  of  its  sable,  restless  pinions. 
Would  it  envelop  them  in  its  gloomy  folds,  and  surrender  become 
a  reality,  became  a  painful  question.  A  few  fleeting  days  must  de 
termine  for  succor  and  freedom,  or  defeat  and  capture.  Provisions 
were  becoming  a  rarity,  and  mule-flesh  was  freely  issued,  and  raven 
ously  devoured.  The  approaching  national  anniversary  was  looked 
forward  to  as  a  day  of  fearful  strife.  The  boys  laughingly  inquired, 
"We  wonder  who  will  be  best  satisfied  with  the  grand  celebra 
tion?" 

The  guns  on  the  peninsula  poured  a  rapid  fire  on  the  city ;  the 
100-pounder  Parrotts  doing  terrible  execution  on  the  buildings, 
about  sunset.  Our  batteries  were  very  quiet.  The  question  was 
frequently  propounded,  in  view  of  an  expected  surrender,  "  Why  not 
expend  our  large  supply  of  ammunition  in  firing  upon  the  eneniy^ 
rather  than  permit  it  to  pass  into  their  hands,  to  swell  the  list  of 
their  captures  ?"  Echo  questioned  "  Why  ?" 

The  sun  dipped  beneath  the  western  horizon  amid  the  thunder 
of  guns.  Storm-clouds  hung  low  in  the  heavens,  athwart  whose 
darkness  the  forked  lightning  played  in  fitful  gleams.  A  fierce 
southeast  wind  swept  shrieking  by ;  not  a  star  or  gleam  of  blue  sky 
was  visible  through  the  leaden  canopy  of  clouds.  The  scene  was 
gloomy  in  the  extreme.  It  seemed  as  if  the  spirits  of  those  who 
had  fallen  along  the  lines  were  visiting  the  doomed  garrison,  warn 
ing  them,  amid  gloom  and  darkness,  of  their  coming  doom.  We 
laid  down  to  sleep,  while  the  mortars  still  fired  rapidly  upon  the 
city,  and  soon  forgot  all  care  in  the  land  of  dreams,  regardless  of 
the  exploding  bombs,  red  glare,  and  the  hum  of  their  descending 
fragments.  Thus  passed  another  day. 

Killed :  Lieutenant  J.  Horn,  Co.  F ;  F.  J.  Brosi,  Co.  F,  wounded. 

3d.  The  morning  was  clear.  The  cannonading  was  terrific,  and 
a  storm  of  iron  hail  was  poured  upon  the  city,  and  the  hospitals 
seemed  a  special  mark  for  the  enemy's  shot  and  shell.  In  the  after 
noon  a  heavy  storm-cloud  gathered  in  the  north  and  northeast, 
hanging  like  a  funeral  pall  over  the  city.  A  flag  of  truce  went  out 
to  the  enemy's  lines,  and  rumors  began  to  prevail  that  the  place  was 
about  to  be  surrendered.  The  brave  garrison  indignantly  denied 
such  a  contingency,  yet  scarcely  knew  what  to  believe.  Aflfairs 
looked  very  gloomy.  The  night  was  clear  and  quiet,  and  the  spirit 
of  disaster  once  more  fanned  the  air  with  its  sable  pinions  ere  a  final 
descent  upon  the  city.  Out  on  the  realms  of  mind  soared  swift- 
winged  thought,  reviewing  the  events  of  the  past  forty-eight  days — 
days  of  such  suffering,  horror,  and  carnage  as  the  soul  shuddered  to 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  269 

contemplate.  Then  the  soul  would  be  filled  with  sad  memories  of 
the  spirits  gone,  the  mouldering  bodies,  sleeping  in  peaceful  quiet 
beneath  the  newly-made  mounds  of  earth.  Yet  amid  all  the  zephyr- 
ous-winged  thoughts  the  glittering  stars  looked  smilingly  down 
upon  the  quiet  city  and  its  slumbering  hosts. 


CHAPTER    XXX. 

THE    SURRENDER. 

JULY  4th,  a  day  memorable  in  the  annals  of  American  history, 
was  destined  once  again  to  be  made  memorable  as  a  day  both  of  re 
joicing  and  humiliation  to  those  who  had  besieged  and  defended 
Vicksburg.  Early  in  the  day  it  became  known  that  negotiations 
were  pending  for  the  surrender  of  the  Southern  stronghold.  A  per 
fect  storm  of  indignation  burst  forth  among  the  troops.  What, 
surrender,  and  that,  too,  on  the  4th  of  July,  above  all  other  days  ? 
Impossible !  Alas,  it  became  too  true !  The  following  order  was 
early  promulgated : 

HEADQUARTERS,  FORNEY'S  DIVISION,) 
July  4^,  1863.  f 

I  am  directed  by  the  Lieutenant-General  commanding  to  inform 
you,  that  the  terms  for  the  capitulation  of  Vicksburg  and  garrison 
have  been  completed,  and  are  as  follows  : 

The  officers  and  men  will  be  paroled  at  once,  retaining  their  pri 
vate  baggage ;  commissioned  officers  their  side-arms,  and  mounted 
officers  one  horse  each. 

At  10  o'clock,  A.  M.,  to-day,  each  brigade  will  be  marched  out  in 
front  of  its  respective  position,  stacking  arms ;  it  will  then  return, 
and  bivouac  in  rear  of  the  trenches  until  the  necessary  rolls  can  be 
completed. 

You  will  please  state  to  your  troops  that  these  terms  are  concurred 
in  by  the  general  officers,  and  you  will  caution  your  men  not  to  avoid 
being  paroled,  as  it  is  to  their  advantage  to  have  their  papers  prop 
erly  made  out. 

So  soon  as  the  order  is  received  you  will  cause  white  flags  to  be 
displayed  along  your  lines. 

I  am,  General,  very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 
Official:  J.  H.  FORNEY,  Major-General  Commanding. 

W.  D.  HARDIMAN,  A.  A.  G. 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  271 

The  receipt  of  this  order  was  the. signal  for  a  fearful  outburst  of 
anger  and  indignation,  seldom  witnessed.  The  members  of  the  Third 
Louisiana  Infantry  expressed  their  feelings  in  curses  loud  and  deep. 
Many  broke  their  trusty  rifles  against  the  trees,  scattered  the  ammu 
nition  over  the  ground  where  they  had  so  long  stood  battling  bravely 
and  unflinchingly  against  overwhelming  odcls.  In  many  instances, 
the  battle-worn  flags  were  torn  into  shreds,  and  distributed  among 
the  men  as  a  precious  and  sacred  memento,  that  they  were  no  party 
to  the  surrender. 

When  the  appointed  hour,  10  A.  M.,  arrived,  the  surrender  was 
effected  in  conformity  with  the  published  order.  The  troops  were 
marched  outside  the  trenches,  along  whose  line  fluttered  white  pen 
nants,  arms  were  stacked,  and,  in  sullen  silence,  they  returned  within 
the  lines,  and  sought  convenient  camps  in  the  rear  of  the  intrench- 
ments,  where  they  might  give  free  expression  to  their  pent-up  feel 
ings.  Soon  along  the  entire  line  Federal  soldiers  paced  where  so 
recently  arose  the  sulphurous  smoke  and  deafening  din  of  fierce 
battle. 

The  siege  of  Vicksburg  was  at  last  ended.  Thus,  forty-eight  long 
days  and  nights,  twenty  thousand  Southerners,  decreased  finally  to 
a  mere  handful,  had  successfully  resisted  the  combined  assault  of 
120,000  Federals.*  Such  a  siege  was  unparalleled  in  the  annals  of 
American  history  for  duration,  and  not  surpassed  in  any  land  for 
violent  assault,  and  the  number  of  missiles  hurled  at  the  assailed. 
The  Federals  who  marched  into  the  place  had  more  the  appearance 
of  being  vanquished  than  the  unarmed  Confederates,  who  gazed 
upon  them  with  folded  arms,  and  in  stern  silence,  a  fierce  defiance 
on  their  bronzed  features,  and  the  old  battle  fire  gleaming  in  their 
glittering  eyes.  This  was  when  the  Federals  first  appeared.  During 
all  the  events  of  the  surrender,  not  one  had  been  seen,  and  afterward 
no  word  of  exultation  was  uttered  to  irritate  the  feelings  of  the 
prisoners.  On  the  contrary,  every  sentinel  who  came  upon  post 
brought  haversacks  filled  with  provisions,  which  he  would  give  to 
some  famished  Southerner,  with  the  remark,  u  Here,  reb,  I  know  you 
are  starved  nearly  to  death."  They  knew  that  nothing  but  this 
gaunt  skeleton  had  compelled  their  opponents  to  capitulate,  and 
even  then  the  honors  of  war  claimed  had  been  granted  them.  More 
over,  the  terms  of  capitulation  were  as  favorable  as  could  have  been 
expected.  The  officers  expressed  great  astonishment  at  the  place 
being  held  so  long  behind  such  feeble,  illy-constructed  works  as 

*  A  fact  stated  by  General  Herron,  U.  S.  A.,  to  Lieutenant  Fowler,  of  Gen 
eral  Forney's  staff. 


272  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

those  around  Vicksburg — works  that  were  a  sad  commentary  on  the 
skill  of  any  engineer  calling  himself  such. 

At  noon  on  the  day  of  surrender  the  fleet  approached  the  city, 
decked  with  innumerable  flags,  and  the  thunder  of  artillery  pro 
claimed  the  exultation  of  the  conquerors.  It  was  a  sad  spectacle  for 
the  ragged,  emaciated,  yet  heroic  Confederates,  who  had  so  stub 
bornly  endeavored  to  retain  possession  of  this  stronghold. 

SCENES   AFTER   THE   SURRENDER. 

During  the  siege  of  Vicksburg,  there  was  a  class  of  non-combat 
ants  who  distinguished  themselves  in  a  marked  manner.  These  were 
the  speculators,  embracing  nearly  every  merchant  within  the  limits 
of  the  city,  without  distinction  of  nationality.  These  bloodsuck 
ers  had  the  audacity  to  hold  their  goods  at  such  prices  that  it  was  an 
an  utter  impossibility  to  obtain  anything  from  them.  Four  hundred 
dollars  was  the  price  of  a  barrel  of  flour  ;  coffee  was  ten  dollars  per 
pound,  and  everything  else  in  like  proportion  Some  of  these, 
worse  than  villains,  refused  to  sell  to  the  soldiers  at  any  price,  and, 
consequently,  were  not  objects  of  special  love  by  the  brave  men. 

When  the  Federal  soldiers  entered  the  city  they  mingled  freely 
with  the  Confederates,  and  expressed  their  sympathy  with  their  de 
plorable  situation  by  every  possible  means  in  their  power.  They 
were  now  no  longer  deadly  combatants,  but  mortals  of  similar  feel 
ings.  A  retributive  justice  speedily  descended  upon  the  speculators, 
as  the  Federals  broke  open  their  stores,  completely  plundering  them. 
The  Southerners  looked  on  this  work  of  destruction  with  feelings 
akin  to  satisfaction,  and  felt  as  if  a  portion  of  their  wrongs  were 
avenged.  Wines,  for  which  the  sick  had  pined  in  vain,  were 
brought  to  light  ;  luxuries  of  various  kinds  were  found  in  profusion. 
The  Federals  brought  them  into  the  streets,  and  throwing  them 
down,  would  shout,  u  Here,  rebs,  help  yourselves,  you  are  naked  and 
starving  and  need  them."  What  a  strange  spectacle  of  war  between 
those  who  were  so  recently  deadly  foes  !  Such  generosity  was  no 
rarity,  and  softened  down  much  of  the  deadly  animosity  and  bitter 
feeling  experienced  by  the  vanquished  for  their  foes.  Many  found 
friends  and  relatives,  and  the  Third  Regiment  had  more  than  its 
share  among  the  Federal  troops.  They  met  with  cordial  greetings  ; 
yet  each  adhered  most  tenaciously  to  their  political  sentiments  and 
discussions  ;  furious  and  warm  were  the  special  order  of  the  day. 

Aside  from  the  speculators  was  a  class  of  citizens  in  Vicksburg, 
who  did  their  duty  nobly.  Let  it  be  known,  everywhere  written  in 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  273 

ineffaceable  characters  upon  the  pages  of  history  ;  traced  with  golden 
letters  upon  the  scroll  of  Time ;  stamped  with  an  indelible  impression 
upon  every  manly  Southern  heart,  that  the  LADIES  of  VICKSBURG 
were  as  true  as  steel,  charitable  to  a  fault  upon  every  occasion,  when 
their  services  were  needed.  Flittering  like  ministering  angels  about 
the  hospitals,  giving  aid  and  comfort  to  the  sick  and  wounded  ;  ho 
vering  with  tearful  eyes  over  the  dying  soldier ;  threading  their  way 
along  the  torn-up  streets  amid  the  scream  of  shot  and  shell,  and  the 
storm  of  descending  iron  on  missions  of  love  and  mercy,  they  exhib 
ited  a  heroism  and  devotion  beyond  portrayal  by  human  language. 

The  rememberance  of  her  deeds  there  come  back  to  us  now  with 
a  force  which  mere  words  can  give  no  expression  to.  Devoted  wo 
men  of  Vicksburg  !  to-day,  when  the  storm  of  war  has  passed  away 
and  bright- winged  peace  once  again  smilingly  sits  on  the  thres 
holds  of  our  homes,  the  heroes  of  thy  city  still  remember  thee  with 
an  imperishable  love,  eternal,  undying  as  the  soul  itself. 

Could  human  language  furnish  expressions  sufficiently  strong  and 
beautiful,  then  would  thought  soar  amidst  its  intricacies,  and  pluck 
therefrom  its  choicest  words  and  transcribe  them  on  these  pages, 
that  they  might  shine  with  radiant  splendor  here,  a  feeble  tribute  to 
thy  kindness,  love,  and  patriotism. 

THE    HOSPITALS. 

To  the  diary  of  Captain  Charles  A.  Brusle,  an  officer  on  General 
Hebert's  staff,  we  are  indebted  for  the  substance  of  the  following  rec 
ords  : 

"  There  were  two  classes  of  hospitals  in  Vicksburg  :  those  for  the 
sick,  and  those  for  the  wounded.  A  week  after  the  siege,  Washing 
ton  Hospital  contained  three  hundred  sick ;  the  average  deaths  daily 
being  from  five  to  eight.  During  the  siege  the  number  of  patients 
reached  nearly  eight  hundred,  and  the  deaths  were  proportionately 
greater,  footing  up  eighteen  or  twenty  daily.  In  this  hospital  very 
few  wounded  were  admitted,  so  that,  although  much  suffering  was 
depicted  upon  the  countenances  of  the  poor  inmates,  yet  were  the 
scenes  not  so  heart-rending  as  those  exhibited  by  a  visit  to  the  hos 
pitals  containing  the  wounded.  In  the  latter  could  be  seen  men 
with  both  legs  off;  some  with  an  eye  out,  others  without  arms,  and 
again,  some  who  could  once  boast  of  manly  beauty  and  personal 
attractions,  rendered  hideous  by  the  loss  of  the  nose  or  a  portion  of 
the  face,  so  as  to  be  unrecognizable  by  their  nearest  and  dearest  kin 
dred.  If  one  wishes  to  view  the  havoc  of  war  next  to  the  battle-field, 


274  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

this  is  the  place  to  witness  it.  So  fearful,  so  horrible  are  the  scenes, 
that,  long  after  you  have  left  the  place,  perhaps  haunting  you  to  the 
verge  of  life,  the  screams  of  the  wounded,  the  groans  of  the  dying, 
or  some  form  cold  and  stiff  in  death's  icy  embrace  will  ring  in  your 
ears  and  be  present  to  your  mental  vision.  One  more  picture  and  the 
tableau  is  complete  —  the  burial  of  the  dead.  During  the  siege, 
trenches  fifty  feet  long  and  three  feet  wide  were  dug,  to  receive 
the  bodies  of  the  brave  men  and  officers.  They  usually  contained 
about  eight  bodies.  It  was  seldom  a  coffin  could  be  procured,  and 
the  brave  defender  of  his  country  had  to  be  wrapped  in  his  blanket 
and  lowered  into  the  cold  earth  which  was  hastily  heaped  above  his 
mortal  remains." 

THE  "CONTRABANDS." 

Of  course,  large  numbers  of  the  officers  had  their  negro  servants 
with  them,  and  the  disposition  to  be  made  of  them  became  a  matter 
of  great  anxiety. 

The  following  order  from  Major-Gen eral  James  B.  McPherson,  to 
Lieutenant-General  John  C.  Pemberton,  relative  to  negroes  belonging 
to  officers,  was  first  received : 

HEADQUARTERS,  PAROLED  PRISONERS,  ) 
VICKSBURG,  July  6.  1863.     > 

Circular : — The  following  is  published  for  the  information  of  all 
concerned : 

HEADQUARTERS  17TH  ARMY  CORPS,  ) 
VICKSBURG,  July  6,  1863.      J 

Lt.- General  Pemberton,  Commanding  C.  S.  A.  Forces,  Vicksburg, 

GENERAL  : — In  relation  to  the  question  of  servants,  I  am  author 
ized  to  say  that  each  commissioned  officer  can  send  in  the  boy 
whom  he  wishes  to  take  with  him  with  a  pass,  stating  the  fact  to 
my  Provost  Marshal,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Wilson,  who  will  question 
him  as  to  his  willingness  to  go,  at  the  same  time  stating  to  the  boy 
that  he  is  free  to  do  as  he  likes.  If  the  boy  or  servant  says  he 
wishes  to  go,  a  pass  will  then  be  issued  to  him. 

General  officers  will  not  be  permitted  to  take  with  them  mounted 
men  for  couriers.  Major-General  Grant  furthermore  directs  me  to 
say  that  he  cannot  permit  you  to  send  a  courier  with  dispatches  to 
your  Government  to-day,  but  will  do  so  as  soon  as  the  public  interest 
will  permit. 

Two  teams  will  be  allowed  for  your  headquarters ;  one  team  for 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  275 

Division  Headquarters ;  one  four  mule-team  for  Brigade  Headquar 
ters;  one  four-mule  team  for  each  regiment;  one  team  for  Major 
Orme,  Chief  Quartermaster.  Very  respectfully  your  obedient  ser 
vant,  JAMES  B.  MCPHERSON,  Major  General. 

By  order  Lieutenant- General  PEMBERTON. 

R.  W.  MEMMINGER,  A.  A.  G. 
Official:  S.  CROM,  A.  A.  G.,  to  Brigadier- General  HEBERT,  Com 
manding  Brigade. 

In  conformity  with  the  above  order,  large  numbers  of  negroes  im 
mediately  sought  Lieutenant-Colonel  Wilson's  quarters,  and  seemed 
so  eager  to  leave  Vicksburg  with  their  former  masters  and  employers, 
that  Major-General  McPherson  thought  best  to  send  the  following 
letter  to  General  Pemberton  : 

GENERAL  : — I  am  constrained,  in  consequence  of  the  abuse  of  the 
privilege  which  was  granted  to  officers  to  take  out  one  private  ser 
vant  each  (colored),  to  withdraw  it  altogether,  except  in  cases  of 
families,  and  sick  and  disabled  officers. 

The  abuses  which  I  speak  of  are,jtfrs£,  officers  coming  with  their 
servants  here,  and  intimidating  them  instead  of  sending  them  by 
themselves  to  be  questioned ;  second,  citizens  have  been  seen  and 
heard  in  the  streets  urging  negroes,  who  are  evidently  not  servants, 
to  go  with  the  officers  ;  third,  negroes  have  also  been  brought  here 
who  have  been  at  work  on  the  fortifications. 

Very  respectfully  your  obedient  servant, 

J.  B.  MCPHERSON,  Major- General. 

These  letters  need  no  comment  at  the  present  time.  They  are 
inserted  here  as  connected  with  events  transpiring  at  Vicksburg,  and 
as  forming  an  important  portion  of  the  history  of  the  late  unnatural 
war. 

Numbers  of  the  negroes  attached  to  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry 
stayed  with  it,  and  attempted  to  leave  with  their  former  employers, 
but  were  detained.  The  parting  between  them  at  the  lines  often  ex 
hibited  very  affecting  scenes. 

COMMENTS    ON   THE    FALL   OF   VICKSBURG. 

When  the  city  fell,  and  was  surrendered  on  the  4th  of  July,  the 
men  broke  forth  in  bitter  denunciation  of  Lieutenant-General  Pem 
berton,  boldly  proclaiming  that  they  had  been  sold  to  the  enemy. 
Surrender  on  the  4th  of  July !  Why  should  that  day,  of  all  others, 


276  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

be  chosen  for  their  humiliation  ?  They  preferred  dying— a  thou 
sand  times  more  preferable — than  making  the  National  Anniversary 
a  thrice  memorable  natal  day,  and  giye  to  the  United  States  a  new 
impulse  for  prosecuting  the  war.  Would  it  not  be  received  as  a 
good  omen,  and  infuse  a  new  spirit  into  the  efforts  of  the  foe  for 
their  subjugation?  Such  were  some  of  the  fierce  denunciations 
used,  whether  justly  or  not  the  world  has  never  discovered.  Yet  it 
seems  scarcely  probable  or  possible  that  General  Pemberton  could 
have  been  actuated  by  such  perfidious  motives. 

That  General  Pemberton  was  not  altogether  blameless,  is  a  fact 
known  to  the  public  generally  ;  yet  that  he  should  be  made  to  bear 
the  whole  of  that  disaster  is  wrong.  We  resume,  in  connection  with 
this  subject,  extracts  from  the  diary  already  mentioned.  Lieutenant- 
General  Pemberton  was  guilty  of  gross  neglect  of  duty  in  two  ways : 

1.  In  not  fortifying  Vicksburg  so  as  to  resist  an  attack  from  the 
rear  with  the  least  possible  loss  of  life. 

2.  In  not  procuring  supplies  for  the  garrison  sufficient  to  make  a 
protracted  defence  in  case  of  a  siege. 

This  is  the  great  and  chief  cause  of  complaint.  Not  withstand 
ing  public  or  private  opinion  regarding  this  subject,  starvation  was 
the  actual  cause  of  the  surrender,  as  the  records  of  these  pages 
plainly  demonstrate.  Communications  were  received  from  the  Yazoo 
Valley  giving  information  that  immense  supplies  could  be  obtained 
form  this  source.  Yet  no  efforts  were  made  to  obtain  these  supplies  or 
transport  them  to  Vicksburg,  although  it  was  known  that  General 
Grant  was  making  strenuous  exertions  to  cross  the  river  and  attack 
Vicksburg  from  the  rear,  and  might  succeed  at  any  moment.  Again, 
the  large  quantity  of  supplies  which  accumulated  at  Snyder's  Mills 
were  allowed  to  remain  there,  and  were  eventually  destroyed  for  the 
want  of  transportation,  which  should  have  been  furnished  at  all 
hazards,  regardless  of  the  loss  of  camp  equipage  and  clothing. 

These  are  indisputable  facts,  and  are  placed  on  record  as  neces 
sary  to  the  completeness  of  the  history  concerning  the  siege  and 
fall  of  Vicksburg,  and  not  with  a  view  of  casting  undue  reflections 
upon  the  course  pursued  by  Lieutenant-General  Pemberton,  who 
afterwards  nobly  served  the  Confederacy  as  a  colonel  of  artillery. 

AFTER   THE    SURRENDER. 

July  5th.  Kations  for  five  clays  were  issued  to  the  Confederates 
from  the  Commissariat  of  the  Federals.  These  rations  consisted  of 
bacon,  hominy,  peas,  coffee,  sugar,  soap,  salt,  candles  and  bread. 
How  the  famished  troops  enjoyed  such  bounteous  supplies  it  is 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  277 

needless  to  state.  For  once  the  brave  boys  were  the  objects  of  their 
enemy's  charity.  They  grew  jovial  and  hilarious  over  the  change  in 
their  condition.  The  Yankees  came  freely  among  them,  and  were 
unusually  kind.  They  asked  innumerable  questions,  and  were  hor 
rified  at  the  fact  of  the  men  eating  mules  and  rats,  and  openly  ex 
pressed  their  admiration  for  the  unfaltering  bravery  of  the  Confed 
erates.  The  men  of  the  Third  discussed  the  events  of  the  siege,  and 
the  probability  of  soon  being  paroled.  Visions  of  home  and  the 
loved  ones  there  rose  in  rainbow  tints  before  their  imaginations, 
and  many  plans  were  formed  for  the  period  of  their  freedom  from 
military  service  until  their  exchange.  Rained  very  hard  during  the 
afternoon. 

7th.  Clear,  and  very  warm.  Vicksburg  presented  a  strange  yet 
animated  scene.  Immense  numbers  of  steamers  crowded  the  land 
ings.  The  streets  were  thronged  with  crowds  of  citizens  and 
soldiers,  the  Yankees  eager  to  inspect  the  effects  of  tbe  siege— the 
Confederates  equally  as  curious  to  view  the  gun-boats,  steamers— 
whatever  was  new  and  strange  to  them.  On  this  day  the  work  of 
paroling  was  commenced. 

The  men  were  paroled  separately,  and  subscribed  to  the  follow 
ing  oath :  • 

VICKSEUIIG,  Miss.,  July  7,  1863. 

To  all  wliom  it  may  concern  : 

Know  ye,  that  I, ,  a  private,  Company  — ,  —  Regiment  —  Vol 
unteers,  C.  S.  A.,  being  a  prisoner  of  war  in  the  hands  of  the  United 
States  forces,  in  virtue  of  the  capitulation  of  the  City  of  Vicksburg 
and  its  garrison  by  Lieutenant-G-eneral  John  C.  Pemberton,  C.  S.  A., 
commanding  on  the  4th  day  of  July,  1863,  do,  in  pursuance  of  the 
terms  of  said  capitulation,  give  this  my  solemn  parole,  under  oath  : 

That  I  will  not  take  up  arms  again  against  the  United  States, 
nor  serve  in  any  military  police  or  constabulary  force  in  any  fort, 
garrison  or  field-work  held  by  the  Confederate  States  of  America, 
against  the  United  States  of  America,  nor  a  guard  of  prisons,  depots 
or  stores,  nor  discharge  any  duties  usually  performed  by  officers  or 
soldiers,  against  the  United  States  of  America,  until  duly  exchanged 
by  the  proper  authorities. 

Sworn  to  and  subscribed  before  me,  at  Vicksburg,  Miss.,  this  7th 
day  of  July,  1863.  JOHN  O.  DUER, 

Captain  4Qth  Illinois  Regiment,  and  Paroling  Officer. 

A  new  spectacle  to  the  brave  boys  of  the  Third  Louisiana  was  to- 


278  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

day  witnessed  in  Vicksburg,  which  was  the  free  intermingling  be 
tween  the  Yankees  and  negroes  on  terms  of  equality.  The  author 
saw  a  United  States  officer  walking  through  the  streets  with  a  negro 
woman  leaning  on  his  arm.  He  carried  an  umbrella,  doubtless  to 
shelter  his  lady  from  the  sun,  and  prevent  the  bright  light  from 
tanning  lier  ebony  complexion.  How  such  a  scene  affected  a  Southerner 
then  can  better  be  imagined  than  described.  Now,  it  would  scarce 
elicit  a  passing  glance. 

Thus  affairs  progressed  from  day  to  day,  with  little  change.  The 
Confederates  crossed  the  river  in  numbers,  being  permitted  to  do  so 
by  the  Federals,  who  well  knew  that  it  was  a  most  effectual  method 
of  demoralizing  and  destroying  the  efficiency  of  the  army. 

On  the  llth  the  army  was  formed  in  proximity  to  the  road  leading 
to  Jackson,  preparatory  to  having  their  baggage  examined,  and  bid 
ding  a  final  adieu  to  the  scene  of  their  heroic  valor.  The  Third 
Regiment  were  alone  honored  with  a  row  of  sentries  completely 
encircling  them.  None  were  allowed  to  enter  or  pass  beyond  this 
line,  unless  by  special  permission.  Whether  the  Yankees  still  feared 
some  outbreak  from  the  brave  Louisianians,who  had  fought  them  with 
such  desperation  and  courage,  or  whether  it  was  a  precaution  adopted 
by  the  officers  to  keep  the  men  together,  was  not  discovered.  At 
this  time  it  was  well  known  that  the  attempt  was  about  to  be  made 
to  march  the  entire  army  to  some  point  in  the  Confederacy,  and  keep 
them  in  camp  until  finally  exchanged.  They  were  determined  to  see 
their  homes  and  relatives.  Expostulations,  threats  and  commands 
were  words  wasted,  and  a  child  might  as  well  have  endeavored  to 
move  a  mountain  with  its  puny  arm,  as  for  any  officer  to  change 
their  fixed  purpose. 

At  1U  o'clock  A.  M.,  July  llth,  the  army  bade  a  final  adieu  to 
Vicksburg.  They  marched  out  of  their  stronghold  with  a  proud 
step,  and  a  stern  defiance  on  their  faces.  The  roadsides  and  embank 
ments  were  crowded  with  Federals,  to  take  a  farewell  glance  at  the 
troops  who  had  fought  them  so  stubbornly  and  desperately.  Not  a 
word  of  exultation  or  an  outburst  of  any  feeling  was  manifested  by 
the  foe.  Honoring  the  heroic  garrison  for  their  bravery,  they  would 
not  add  to  the  humiliation  of  their  surrender,  by  a  single  taunt. 
As  the  Third  Regiment  passed  out  of  the  works  which  they  had  de 
fended  with  such  obstinate  bravery,  they  saw  a  large  detail  actively 
engaged  in  filling  up  the  approaches  which  they  had  dug  to  the 
intrenchments  occupied  by  the  regiment.  The  old  spirit  of  defiance 
broke  forth  in  words,  as  they  witnessed  the  scene. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  279 

"  Oh  !  yes,"  said  one,  "  shovel  dirt,  d n  you.  It  is  all  you  are 

good  for.  You  can  do  that  better  than  fighting." 

"  Dry  up,"  retorted  a  Federal ;  u  you  rebels  have  grown  wonderful 
sassy  on  Uncle  Sam's  grub." 

It  was  a  home-thrust,  and  the  boys  journeyed  by  in  silence. 

The  day  was  a  scorching  hot  one,  and  the  men  yet  weak  and  all 
unaccustomed  to  marching.  Yet,  under  these  disadvantages,  they 
tramped  steadily  forward,  making  fourteen  miles,  and  encamping 
on  the  east  side  of  Big  Black.  Their  whole  line  of  march  was 
through  the  United  States  forces,  who  gathered  in  large  numbers 
along  the  road  to  see  the  captured  army.  The  Confederates,  during 
this  first  clay's  march,  began  to  exhibit  a  terrible  state  of  demorali 
zation.  There  was  no  regular  organization  of  either  companies, 
regiments  or  brigades,  and  large  numbers  of  the  men  were  constantly 
leaving  for  home.  The  Third  Regiment  had  only  a  handful  of  men 
left,  comprised  mostly  of  those  whose  homes  were  within  the  enemy's 
lines.  On  the  12th  we  reached  Raymond,  marching  a  distance  of 
twenty-one  miles.  At  this  place  the  ladies  stood  on  the  streets  with 
refreshments  for  the  wearied,  weak  troops,  whom  they  welcomed 
with  every  demonstration  of  joy,  and  many  kind,  encouraging  words. 

The  next  day,  at  12  M.,  the  troops  arrived  at  Pearl  River,  where 
they  met  the  outposts  of  the  Confederate  army.  An  attempt  was 
made  at  this  stream  to  prevent  the  men  from  crossing,  except  in 
organized  bodies.  It  most  signally  failed,  as  they  constructed  rafts, 
above  and  below  the  regular  crossing,  and  ferried  each  other  over. 
The  troops  proceeded  about  twelve  miles  east"  of  Pearl  River,  ere 
they  halted.  General  Pemberton  rode  in  advance,  and  endeavored 
in  vain  to  halt  those  who  had  left  the  main  body.  They  either  paid 
no  attention  to  his  commands,  or  left  the  highway  for  some  less  pub 
lic  road.  That  night  a  large  number  of  the  Third  Regiment  en 
camped  near  a  corn-field,  some  distance  from  the  main  road.  They 
had  but  a  single  frying-pan,  as  cooking  utensil  for  the  whole  body. 
It  was  used  in  succession  by  squads  of  three  and  four,  and  then 
passed  on.  Corn  was  prepared  and  devoured  on  this  occasion  in  its 
simplest  form,  yet  with  keen  relish  and  in  quantities  sufficiently 
large  to  have  killed  men  with  the  usual  digestive  organs.  A  Geor 
gian  did  actually  die  from  eating  too  much  of  this  new  food,  finish 
ing  nearly  two  dozen  ears.  He  was  buried  near  the  road-side,  and  a 
large  placard  pasted  on  a  tree,  giving  his  name  and  regiment,  and 
setting  forth  the  fact  that  he  died  from  "  the  effects  of  eating  too 
much  green  corn."  No  one,  however,  heeded  the  warning  contained 
in  this  singular  obituary  notice. 


280  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

How  strange  the  contrast  between  their  present  situation  and  that 
of  a  few  days  previously  !  Then  they  were  living  amid  the  uproar 
and  excitement  of  a  fierce  and  deadly  conflict ;  now  they  were  un 
armed  wanderers  over  the  land.  Regular  sentinels  watched,  while 
the  remainder  of  the  party  slept  soundly,  most  sweetly,  with  no 
screaming  shells  or  thundering  explosions  to  rudely  disturb  their 
slumbers. 

The  night  was  dark  and  cloudy,  and  the  sentinel  on  guard  must 
be  his  own  time-keeper,  for  no  stars  shone  in  the  sky  to  guide  his 
judgment.  All  around  was  the  silent  woods,  dark  and  gloomy,  dis 
turbed  save  by  the  chirrup  of  insects  and  the  katydid's  not  unmu 
sical  voice.  How  strange  seemed  the  situation  ! 

The  next  morning,  the  14th,  at  3  A.  M.,  started  once  more  on  the 
journey,  reaching  Brandon  at  12  M.,  a  travel  of  twenty  miles  in  a 
half  day.  There  were  fifty  of  the  Third  Regiment  left  as  a  nucleus. 
They  were  hungry,  tired  and  sore,  and,  although  praised  as  being  the 
brave  defenders  of  Vicksburg,  could  not  then  appreciate  the  compli 
ment,  as  it  did  not  satisfy  their  wants.  The  roar  of  artillery  was 
heard  all  day,  indicating  fighting  between  the  forces  of  General 
Johnston  and  the  Federals  at  Jackson. 

Succeeded  in  drawing  some  rations  on  the  15th.  At  this  point 
General  Pemberton  ordered  Adjutant  Curry  to  make  a  detail  from 
the  regiment,  to  guard  some  commissary  stores  on  the  railroad. 
Captain  Gentles,  of  Company  K,  was  detailed,  with  several  men,  who 
all  most  positively  refused  to  do  such  duty,  as  being  in  violation  of 
the  provisions  of  their  paroles.  Captain  Gentles  was  ordered  under 
arrest,  and  here  the  matter  remained  for  the  time  being.  This  episode 
created  great  excitement,  and  resulted  in  some  queer  discussions  as 
to  the  full  meaning  and  extent  of  the  parole.  At  this  period  the 
men,  however,  exhibited  a  disposition  to  interpret  it  in  its  literal  and 
closest  signification. 

On  the  16th,  the  party  started  on  the  road  leading  back  to  Pearl 
River,  to  endeavor  to  find  the  regimental  wagon.  After  proceeding 
nearly  three  miles,  they  were  halted  and  turned  back,  now  marching 
on  the  road  to  Enterprise.  Meeting  a  few  of  the  regiment,  they  re 
ported  this  organization  as  having  melted  into  a  myth,  the  wagons 
in  the  woods  almost  deserted.  A  very  few  of  the  regiment  reached 
Enterprise,  and  were  immediately  furnished  with  the  following  fur 
loughs,  for  thirty  days : 

Special  Orders,  )  HEADQUARTERS  THIRD  LA.  INFANTRY,  ) 

No.  -  \  Enterprise,  Miss.,  July  21,  1863.      J 

In  compliance  with  Division  Circular  Order  of  this  date,  to  me 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  281 

directed,  I  hereby  furlough  —  —  for  (30)  thirty  days,  to  take  effect 
from  the  23d  July.  Members  of  companies  raised  on  the  east  bank 
of  the  Mississippi  River  will  rendezvous  at  Demopolis,  Ala.,  or  such 
other  places  as  may  be  hereafter  designated  by  the  War  Department. 
Members  of  those  companies  raised  on  the  west  bank  of  the  Missis 
sippi  will  rendevuous  at  Alexandria,  La.,  to  march  to  Demopolis, 
Ala.,  or  to  such  other  point  as  may  be  hereafter  designated  by  the 
Secretary  of  War. 

Transportation  will  be  furnished  to ,  to  and  from  his  home,  to 

the  place  of  rendezvous. 

SAMUEL  D.  RUSSELL, 
Lieutenant- Colonel  Commanding  Third  Louisiana  Infantry. 

Previous  to  this  period  the  mass  of  the  regiment  had  already  left 
the  army,  and,  crossing  the  Mississippi  River  wherever  this  object 
could  be  successfully  accomplished,  had  made  their  way  homeward 
in  small  squads.  The  greater  portion  of  the  command  resided  in 
parishes  west  of  the  Mississippi  River.  The  receipt  of  furloughs 
by  the  few  who  reached  Enterprise  was  the  signal  for  a  general 
scattering  of  the  men  over  the  different  States,  wherever  they  had 
friends  and  relatives.  The  conduct  of  the  Third  Regiment  in  thus 
voluntarily  disbanding  was  not  the  exception,  but  the  general  rule 
in  the  army.  The  men  who  had  fought  so  long  and  bravely,  and 
who  had  suffered  so  severely,  felt,  after  their  capture  and  paroling, 
as  if  they  were  not  only  exempt  from  all  military  duty,  but  privi 
leged  to  go  where  they  pleased,  and  do  as  they  pleased,  until  ex 
changed.  They  sadly  needed  rest  and  recreation,  and  sought  their 
homes,  as  being  the  most  favorable  places  to  obtain  these  most  de 
sirable  objects.  Thus  melted  away  the  gallant  army  of  Vicksburg, 
and  the  Confederacy  lost  the .  services  of  some  of  her  bravest,  most 
heroic,  and  truest  defenders.  General  Grant  could  not  have  em 
ployed  a  more  efficient  method  of  disbanding  and  disorganizing  an 
army  than  the  very  course  he  pursued.  It  was  as  effective  as  if  a 
scourge  had  swept  them  from  his  path.  How  joyfully  the  bronzed 
and  weather-beaten  veterans  of  the  Third  Regiment  were  welcomed 
home  by  friends  and  relatives  after  years  of  absence  amid  peril,  we 
leave  the  reader  to  imagine.  Yet  in  many  homes  there  were  aching, 
sorrowful  hearts,  and  tearful  eyes  for  the  loved  one  who  came  not 
back,  whose  voice  was  hushed  forever,  whose  mouldering  body 
quietly  rested  beneath  the  hill-side  sod  of  the  fallen  city,  leaving 
behind  a  name  for  heroic  devotion  and  undaunted  bravery,  which 
would  be  inscribed  on  the  scroll  of  time,  and  live  in  song  and  story. 


282  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 


INCIDENTS. — TJIE    COB-WAGON    AND    THE    MORTAR-SHELL. 

In  the  early  pail  of  the  siege,  all  the  negroes  belonging  to  the 
regiment  were  used  as  cooks  to  prepare  food  for  the  men  in  the 
trenches,  under  the  superintendence  of  the  Commissary  Sergeant  and 
proper  details.  They  had  a  perfect  horror  of  shot  and  shell,  and 
the  proximity  of  one  of  these  missiles  would  stampede  the  whole 
band  from  the  vicinity  of  the  fires  and  utensils,  to  seek  some  shelter 
beneath  the  hills.  The  first  cooking  camp  was  in  the  rear  of  Vicks- 
burg,  almost  in  direct  range  of  the  shells  from  Commodore  Porter's 
mortar  fleet.  The  place  eventually  became  so  warm  that  it  was  an 
utter  impossibility  to  keep  the  cooks  about  the  fires.  Hence  a  move 
was  rendered  necessary.  A  spot  was  chosen  south  of  Yicksbnrg,  in 
a  deep  valley.  There  was  not  a  sign  of  any  unwelcome  visitors 
having  reached  the  sequestered  vale.  Fires  were  speedily  built,  and 
the  negroes  were  hilarious  over  their  work,  feeling  secure  in  their 
new  position.  A  small  one-horse  wagon  was  sent  to  the  grist-mill 
near  at  hand  to  procure  a  load  of  cobs  to  facilitate  the  process  of 
baking.  It  was  driven  up  near  the  fires.  Rude  jokes  and  uproarious 
laughter  arose  on  all  sides  as  the  ebony-hued  cooks  indulged  in  their 
coarse  witticisms.  One  of  the  detail  was  unhitching  the  horse,  while 
a  young  fellow  by  the  name  of  Stephens,  a  member  of  Company  I, 
had  just  taken  out  the  hind  gate  of  the  wagon,  and  was  standing 
about  three  feet  from  the  end  of  the  vehicle.  The  sullen  roar  of  a 
mortar  had  been  heard  but  a  moment  before.  No  notice  was  taken 
of  the  accustomed  miniature  thunder.  Suddenly  the  ominous  scream 
of  the  huge  missile  was  heard  as  it  cleft  a  swift  passage  through  the 
air.  Every  one  intuitively  ceased  laughing  and  talking,  and  intently 
listened  to  the  increasing  voice  of  its  approach.  Nearer,  yet  nearer ! 
the  mad  rush  of  the  iron  mass.  Shriller,  more  hideous  its  fearful 
scream.  The  negroes  stood  with  trembling  limbs,  and  dilated,  dis 
tended  eyes,  as  if  fascinated,  spell-bound.  "Look  out,  boys," 
shouted  one  accustomed  to  the  sound,  "  it's  coming  among  us."  The 
voice  roused  some  few,  who  started  off  at  full  speed.  u  What's  the 
use  of  running  ?"  said  a  young  fellow  standing  near  Stephens  ;  "  you 
will  probably  only  rush  into  danger."  It  took  but  a  few  seconds  for 
all  this  to  occur,  while  the  shell  was  still  descending.  With  a  scream 
like  the  concentrated  shout  of  a  thousand  demons,  down,  down  it 
came,  into  the  very  centre  of  the  camp,  just  missing  the  end  of  the 
wagon,  and  descending  with  tremendous  force  into  the  earth. 
Stephens  was  seen  to  fly  backward  through  the  air,  performing  a 
feat  of  gymnastics  not  usually  a  part  of  any  programme.  "  Hurt 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  283 

any,  Stephens?"  shouted  one  of  the  boys.     Stephens  sprang  nimbly 

to  his  feet,  replying,  "  Not  much  ;  bruised  some ;  but  I'll  be ,  boys, 

if  that  wasn't  what  I  call  a  narrow  escape."  A  loud  burst  of 
laughter  greeted  the  response.  Six  inches  variation  in  the  descent 
of  the  missile  would  have  caused  his  instantaneous  death.  The 
shell,  fortunately  for  all,  failed  to  explode,  but  made  a  hole  in  the 
ground  fully  fifteen  feet  deep,  and  sufficiently  large  for  a  man  to 
crawl  into.  It  was  used  for  many  days  afterward  as  a  receptacle  for 
trash,  although  the  boys  jocularly  remarked,  that  they  preferred 
digging  holes  themselves,  as  being  far  preferable  to  Porter's  very 
striking  and  forcible  method.  The  tremendous  power  and  force  of  a 
mortar-shell  must  be  seen  to  be  appreciated.  It  is  almost  incredible 
how  far  one  of  these  missiles  will  penetrate  into  the  solid  earth. 

THE  RULES   OF   CIVILIZED  WARFARE. 

All  History  teaches  us  that  during  modern  times,  no  matter  how 
fierce  and  deadly  the  struggle  between  nations  appealing  to  arms  for 
a  settlement  of  differences  and  difficulties,  the  hospitals  for  the  sick 
and  wounded  were  considered  as  sacred  spots.  Where  fluttered  the 
yellow  ensign,  insignia  of  the  purpose  for  which  a  building  was 
used,  it  was  regarded  as  an  emblem  of  safety,  and  unapproached  by 
the  storm  of  war.  Yet  in  this  nineteenth  century,  and  to  the  Amer 
ican  race,  was  reserved  the  spectacle  of  disregarding  every  law 
which  should  govern  a  people  engaged  in  a  deadly  struggle.  The 
siege  of  Vicksburg  furnished  no  more  terrible  commentary  upon  the 
inhuman  warfare  waged  during  the  recent  strife,  than  the  fact  that 
the  Confederate  hospitals  were  selected  as  the  special  targets  for  the 
Federal  guns.  There  the  flag  furnished  no  protection  to  the  mangled 
and  helpless  inmates.  The  city  hospital  was  a  large  building,  stand 
ing  in  a  prominent  position,  and  visible  for  miles.  Yet  day  after 
day  the  fire  of  Commodore  Porter's  mortars  was  directed  upon  the 
spot.  The  building  itself  was  crowded  with  wounded,  while  the 
grounds  around  it  were  filled  with  tents,  containing  the  maimed 
soldiers.  To  the  physical  agony  of  their  wounds  was  added  the 
constant  mental  dread  of  the  missiles  which  fell  among  and  around 
them,  or,  bursting  in  the  air  overhead  with  thundering  detonations, 
descended  in  hoarsely  screaming  fragments  among  them.  What 
mattered  it  that  there  were  congregated  there  hundreds  of  maimed, 
suffering  men !  What  mattered  it  that  they  were  helpless  bodies, 
animated  by  heroic  spirits !  Was  not  the  avenger  abroad,  and  a 
malignant  spirit  of  warfare  which  gave  no  heed  to  their  fears  or 
complainings  ?  Oh  !  the  terrible  picture  of  that  hospital,  with  its 


284  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

brave  sufferers,  and  the  exploding  shells  above  the  spot.  It  is 
painted  ineffaceably  upon  the  tablets  of  memory  as  then  often  seen, 
and  the  horrors  of  the  picture  mar  now,  as  then,  all  the  serene 
beauty  of  the  Summer  sky.  Several  shells  penetrated  the  building, 
injuring  many  of  the  occupants,  already  crippled  and  wounded. 
One  huge  shell  descended  through  the  roof  in  an  oblique  direction, 
to  the  ground  floor,  exploding  almost  within  the  surgeons'  room. 
The  hoarded  and  scanty  supply  of  medicines  were  almost  totally 
destroyed,  and  the  chief  surgeon  lost  a  leg.  In  the  centre  of  the 
city  the  Washington  Hotel  was  used  for  hospital  purposes.  Yet  the 
enemy's  Parrott  guns  were  directed,  by  what  malignant  spirit  God 
knows,  upon  the  spot,  although  the  hospital  flag  floated  above  it. 
In  the  southern  portion  of  the  city  was  another  large  building  used 
for  a  similar  purpose.  This  place  became  the  particular  target  for 
the  columbiads  planted  on  the  peninsula  opposite  the  city.  These 
are  not  imaginary  statements,  but  stern  facts,  unimpeachable,  and 
able  to  be  substantiated  by  reliable,  valid  authority.  Whether  the 
wrongs  thus  perpetrated  were  intentional,  cannot  be  known,  but  the 
fact  of  their  existence  is  sufficient,  and  properly  belong  to  a  truthful 
record  of  events,  that  transpired  during  that  memorable  siege. 
Comment  is  considered  unnecessary. 

WOUNDED,   BADLY. 

A  member  of  Company  F  was  severely  wounded,  being  shot 
through  the  body.  After  recovering  somewhat  from  the  first  shock 
of  the  wound,  he  broke  forth  in  bitter  invectives  against  the  Yan 
kees,  completely  exhausting  the  whole  English  vocabulary  of  vitu 
peration  in  his  denunciations. 

"  What  in  all  creation  is  the  matter,  George  ?"  asked  a  friend. 

"  Don't  you  see,  I  have  just  put  on  a  clean,  new  shirt,  the  last  one 

I  have,  and  that  d d  Yankee  has  shot  it  full  of  holes  ?  My  skin 

will  get  well,  but  the  apertures  in  this  garment  never  will  heal  up." 

This  comical  idea  of  the  wounded  veteran  caused  a  general  laugh. 
The  very  thought  of  so  much  solicitation  about  a  shirt,  regardless 
of  the  wounded  body,  was  something  ridiculous  beyond  what  had 
yet  occurred. 

u  I  WANT   TO   GO  HOME." 

One  day,  toward  the  close  of  the  siege,  a  Mississippian,  a  tall, 
awkward  specimen  of  the  country  regions  of  that  State,  suddenly 
broke  forth  in  loud  lamentations,  the  tears  actually  streaming  down 
his  face  as  he  incoherently  sobbed,  "  Boo-hoo  !  boo-hoo  !  I  wish  they 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  285 

* 

would — boo-hoo !— stop  fighting,  or  surrender,  or  something  else,  I 

want  ter  go  home  and  see  my  ma !  boo-hoo  !"     "  Stop  your  d d 

blubbering,  you  ninny-hammer,"  said  one  of  the  Third.  Then  "  I 
want  ter  go  home  "  was  shouted  down  the  line  amid  uproarious 
mirth.  It  became  a  bye-word  for  the  remainder  of  the  siege. 

"  SIMEON,    WIGGLE    WAGGLE." 

Just  on  the  slope  of  the  hill-side,  behind  the  intrenchrnents,  one 
afternoon,  sat  one  of  the  men  on  a  stump.  A  natural  wit,  he  was 
amusing  his  comrades  lying  around  him,  by  a  perfect  fusilade  of 
"  small  talk  "  and  sharp  witticisms.  The  right  hand  lay  negligently 
across  his  lap,  the  other  grasped  the  stump.  Phiz  !  zip  !  "  Boys, 

some  d d  Yankee  is  making  a  target  of  me.  But  let  him  go 

ahead,  if  he  thinks  there  is  no  hereafter."  The  words  were  scarcely 
uttered,  ere  a  Minie*  ball  struck  him,  carrying  away  the  thumb  of 
the  right  hand,  and  entering  the  fleshy  part  of  the  thigh.  Groaning 
with  pain,  he  was  helped  away,  and  sent  to  the  hospital.  A  friend 
soon  called  to  see  him  :  "  Well,  Dave,  how  do  you  feel  ?  I  am  sorry 
to  see  you  here.  Not  seriously  wounded,  are  you  ?" 

"  No  ;  I  guess  not.     Only  a  flesh-wound." 

He  was  calm  and  seemingly  unconcerned  now.  Suddenly  he  re 
marked  : 

u  Look  here,  Will,  there  is  one  thing  that  troubles  me  terribly.  I 
don't  know  what  to  do,"  looking  troubled. 

u  Well,  what  is  it  ?     Anything  I  can  do  for  you  ?" 

"  You  see  that  thumb  ?"  holding  up  the  hand  minus  such  a  por 
tion.  "  No  you  don't,  for  it  is  gone  as  clean  as  a  whistle,  Well,  I 
have  been  thinking  for  some  time  of  a  very  serious  matter." 

"  What  is  it  ?" 

"  How  shall  I  play  Simeon,  wiggle  waggle  ?  Simeon  says  up, 
Simeon  says  down.  Can't  come  it  with  this  hand.  Ha  I  ha  !  ha !" 

His  love  of  fun  overcame  his  physical  agony,  and  he  indulged  the 
propensity  at  the  expense  of  his  own  sufferings.  He  never  recovered, 
but  now  fills  a  soldier's  grave  on  the  hills  of  Yicksburg ;  the  last 
man  of  the  regiment  buried  there  ere  the  troops  left  the  place.  Rest 
in  peace,  friend  Echols,  till  the  last  reveille  summon  you  forth  from 
the  tomb. 

THE   LAST   MEAL. 

The  provisions  had  all  been  distributed.  The  meagre  meal  of 
bread  and  meat  was  voraciously  consumed  at  once  by  some,  while 
others  ate  but  sparingly,  carefully  laying  away  the  remainder  for  some 


286  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

other  time.  A  soldier  sat  amid  his  comrades,  who  were  laughing 
and  chatting  over  their  food  in  high  spirits.  Jovial,  light-hearted, 
fond  of  a  good  joke  and  sport  in  any  form,  he  was  always  creating 
mirth.  Moroseness  and  ill-humor  could  not  linger  where  he  was. 
Consequently,  he  was  a  great  favorite  among  his  comrades.  On  this 
occasion  it  was  noticed  that  he  did  not  eat  his  food.  Looking  at 
the  scanty  store  with  a  comical  expression  on  his  manly  face,  he  re 
marked  : 

"  I  say,  boys,  isn't  this  some  for  a  hearty,  strong  man  ?     General 

John  C is  training  us  like  thorough-bred  racers,  knowing  that 

too  much  food  is  not  good  for  the  wholesome.  I  am  nearly  reduced 
to  the  proper  fighting  weight,  and  think  I  can  toe  the  mark  about 
right.  What  do  you  think  of  it,  boys  ?  Let's  put  up  a  sign,  l  Prize 
King  !  Training  done  in  the  most  thorough  and  scientific  manner.' 
But  I  am  devilish  hungry.  But  I  believe  I'll  save  my  food  until 
morning.1'  Hesitating  a  moment,  he  resumed,  "  No ;  I'll  be  hanged 
if  I  do.  Suppose  I  get  shot,  then  I'll  lose  all  the  pleasure  of  eating 
my  meal.  So  here  goes."  The  food  disappeared,  when  the  soldier 
jumped  to  his  feet  and  seized  his  rifle,  remarking  :  "  I'll  have  a  little 
sport  sharp-shooting."  In  less  than  five  minutes  he  was  a  corpse,  a 
bullet  having  penetrated  his  brain.  Poor  Ed.  Benton,  we  wonder  if 
some  spirit  did  whisper  his  doom  to  him,  as  he  resolved  to  eat  that 
last  meal !  "We  know  not,  yet  this  is  an  authentic  record. 

HOW    A   COMMISSARY   WAS    "DONE    FOR." 

One  gloomy  evening,  several  forms  could  have  been  seen  stealing 
away  from  the  intrenchments  occupied  by  the  Third  Regiment,  as  if 
bent  on  some  mysterious  mission.  Not  far  distant,  a  commissary  of 
one  of  the  other  regiments  had  snugly  ensconced  himself  in  a  secure 
position  near  some  deserted  cabins.  Some  of  the  Argus-eyed  boys 
discovered  that  his  quarters  contained  more  provisions  than  the 
"regulations"  allowed.  It  required  only  a  few  moments  for  the 
discoverer  of  this  fact  to  gather  a  few  choice  friends  from  the  groups 
of  hungry  men,  to  make  a  raid  on  the  hoarded  treasure.  Like  a 
spirit,  we  follow  their  footsteps  as  they  approached  the  victim  of 
their  wiles.  They  soon  surrounded  his  quarters,  and  watched  his 
movements.  He  was  preparing  his  supper.  Savory  bacon,  and, 
actually,  "  slap-jacks  "  made  of  flour,  with  molasses  to  give  them  an 
additional  flavor.  Had  he  peered  into  the  darkness,  while  thus  cook 
ing  his  fine  meal,  he  would  have  seen  eyes,  glittering  in  the  darkness 
like  a  fierce  tiger's,  glaring  at  him — eyes  brilliant  with  the  fires  of 
starvation  and  hunger.  All  unconsciously,  he  completed  his  cooking, 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  287 

ate  a  portion  of  his  food,  then  carefully  placed  the  remainder  safely 
away  for  his  morning  meal.  Alas !  for  the  uncertainty  of  human 
expectations.  After  arranging  everything  to  his  entire  satisfaction, 
the  occupant  of  the  tent  laid  down  on  his  humble  couch,  to  seek 
repose.  Without  no  one  was  astir,  and  only  an  occasional  shot 
along  the  lines  broke  the  silence.  Hark !  was  that  distant  thunder  ? 
No ;  for  bright  constellations  of  stars  glittered  in  the  clear  sky  over 
head,  with  no  storm-cloud  to  mar  their  clear  brilliancy.  Again  that 
sound  swells  upon  the  air.  What  does  it  mean  ?  Watchers  near 
recognized  in  it  the  deep  voice  from  the  land  of  slumber.  The 
sleeper  was  snoring  !  Dark  forms,  like  spirits  of  evil,  arose  from  the 
earth  where  they  had  so  long  lain  motionless,  and  with  noiseless 
footsteps  glided  toward  the  tent,  entering  its  opening  front.  Soon 
they  emerged,  laden  with  the  spoils,  which  were  found  quite  abund 
ant  and  of  great  variety.  Assembling  in  a  dark  group,  one  at  last 
broke  the  silence,  saying,  "  By  George,  boys,  what  a  breakfast  we 
will  have  !  But  I  am  devilish  hungry ;  let's  go  back  and  finish  the 
Captain's  supper."  A  general  assent  was  given,  and  they  returned, 
and,  seating  themselves  coolly,  ate  the  remaining  cakes  and  fried 
meat,  without  rousing  the  unconscious  sleeper  from  his  slumbers. 
The  last  sweetened  morsel  disappeared  within  the  hungry  jaws  of 
one  of  the  party,  who,  wiping  the  molasses  from  his  lips  with  the 
sleeve  of  his  gray  jacket,  remarked,  "  There'll  be  h — 1  to  play  in 
the  morning  about  this  aifair ;  but  mum's  the  word,  boys.  Let's  be 
going." 

Imagine  the  surprise  of  some  of  the  Mississippians  the  next  morn 
ing,  when  they  beheld  the  Louisianians  bountifully  supplied  with 
delicious  biscuits  and  bacon.  Their  astonishment  found  vent  in  bit 
ter  words  of  complaint,  that  "  them  ere  Louisianians  had  plenty  to 
eat,  while  they  were  nearly  starved  to  death."  The  boys  of  the 
Third  Eegiment  had  not  become  veterans  in  the  service  to  be  starved 
as  long  as  anything  eatable  could  be  obtained,  and  had  learned  some 
accomplishments,  which  their  less  experienced  comrades  of  the  Mis 
sissippi  regiments  never  dreamed  of. 

HOW   THEY  DID   IT. 

The  teachings  of  moral  philosophy  have  no  potency  over  the 
human  mind  under  certain  contingencies.  If  a  man  is  actually  suf 
fering  for  the  need  of  some  particular  object,  yet  is  assured  in  his 
own  mind  that  the  perpetration  of  a  wrong  will  supply  his  neces 
sity,  he  seldom  lingers  to  moralize  over  the  nice  points  raised  by  his 


288  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

own  conscience.  Hunger,  gaunt  famine,  "with  its  pallid,  sunken 
eyeballs,  is,  perhaps,  the  very  worst  demon  with  which  the  human 
will  can  contend.  Innumerable  facts,  with  all  their  horrid  and 
thrilling  details,  attest  the  truth  of  this  assertion.  A  starving  soldier 
is  the  very  worst  of  all  moralists,  and  it  is  as  useless  to  expect  the 
habitual  robber  to  desist  from  plundering,  when  gold  is  placed  in  his 
way,  as  to  anticipate  that  a  hungry  soldier  will  not  steal  food  when 
other  resources  fail  him. 

At  Vicksburg,  every  one  knew  that  the  depot  contained  a  large 
supply  of  breadstuifs,  meal,  rice,  flour,  etc.,  put  up  in  bags.  These 
supplies  were  guarded  day  and  night  by  faithful  sentinels,  whom 
neither  persuasion,  threats  nor  gain  could  make  false  to  their  duty. 
The  southern  end  of  the  building  was  securely  barred  by  heavy  oak 
timbers,  nailed  over  the  windows  and  doorway.  In  this  end  of  the 
building  was  a  room  used  as  a  stable,  probably  for  some  quarter 
master's  or  commissary's  horse.  A  single  doorway  led  out  of  this 
room  into  that  portion  of  the  building  used  as  a  store-room  for  the 
supplies.  This  doorway  was  blockaded  with  a  sugar-hogshead. 
Such  were  the  means  used  to  prevent  access  to  the  treasure  from  the 
rear,  while  in  front  stood  the  Argus-eyed  sentinels,  with  loaded  guns 
and  fixed  bayonets,  ready  to  give  any  intruder  a  warm  reception. 
One  stormy  night,  five  members  of  the  regiment  quietly  came  into 
the  camp  where  the  food  was  cooked,  and  aroused  two  slumberers 
from  their  repose.  A  hurried,  low-toned  explanation  was  given  in 
answer  to  the  inquiries  as  to  what  was  wanted,  and  the  whole  party 
moved  out  of  the  camp  toward  the  river.  Up  the  adjacent  hill 
side,  past  the  hospital,  where  the  maimed  and  dying  soldiers  lay, 
through  a  deep  cut  in  the  road,  until  they  reached  the  railroad,  like 
flitting  shadows  passed  the  hurrying  forms.  Boldly  proceeding 
down  the  road,  they  soon  reached  the  depot.  Without  hesitation — 
with  a  skill  and  rapidity  which  would  have  shamed  a  scientific 
burglar,  the  heavy  timbers  were  removed  from  one  of  the  windows, 
until  a  sufficiently  large  aperture  for  the  purpose  was  made.  Into 
this  clambered  a  portion  of  the  party,  using  a  comrade's  shoulder  as 
a  stepping-stone.  Where  was  the  guard,  did  you  say  ?  Innocent 
questioner !  What  little  noise  that  was  made  was  lost  amid  the 
storm  and  the  roar  of  guns.  Those  who  entered  the  room  as  noise 
lessly  and  successfully,  removed  the  only  obstacle  that  intervened 
between  them  and  the  coveted  prize.  It  required  extreme  cau 
tion  to  remove  the  heavy  bags ;  yet  it  was  accomplished.  A  form 
appeared  at  the  opening  and  lifted  out  a  huge,  white  bundle.  It  was 
instantly  seized  and  shouldered  by  one  of  the  party,  who  staggered 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  289 

away  with  his  burden.  A  second,  third  and  fourth  performed  the 
same  task,  until  only  a  single  man  remained.  He  likewise  obtained 
his  load,  but  stirred  not.  The  mystery  was  soon  explained.  Re 
ceiving  two  more  bags,  he  aided  his  comrades  within  to  descend, 
when  they  all  hurried  from  the  scene  of  their  exploit.  Meeting  at 
an  agreed  rendezvous,  the  party,  with  great  demonstrations  of  joy, 
exulted  over  their  success.  A  portion  of  the  precious  burdens  was 
deposited  in  a  secure  place,  while  the  remainder  was  conveyed  to 
the  intrenchments— a  distance  of  over  two  miles.  It  seemed  incred 
ible  that  weakened,  starving  men  could  thus  carry  a  lead  averaging 
from  one  hundred  to  one  hundred  and  fifty  pounds.  Yet  so  it  was. 
The  very  desperation  of  their  hunger  gave  them  an  unnatural 
strength,  just  as  a  physically  weak  man  becomes  endowed  with 
supernatural  muscular  powers  under  circumstances  of  imminent 
peril.  A  successful  "  foraging"  party  was  always  welcomed  with 
great  demonstrations  of  joy,  for  supplies  thus  procured  were  gener 
ously  distributed  among  their  comrades.  Liberality  toward  each 
other  was  one  of  the  features  that  marked  the  conduct  of  the  Louis- 
ianians,  and  a  mean,  niggardly  man  among  them  was  as  heartily  de 
spised  and  as  rare  as  a  cowardly  one. 

Such  incidents  are,  perhaps,  not  very  flattering  to  the  morality 
of  the  regiment,  but  they  are  none  the  less  matters  of  fact,  and  will 
serve  to  explain  how  the  '*  boys,"  at  times,  had  an  abundance,  while 
their  less  venturesome  and  wondering  comrades  of  the  Mississippi 
regiments  suffered  the  pangs  of  extreme  hunger. 

STEALING   VEGETABLES. 

One  Sunday  evening  two  of  the  non-commissioned  staif  of  the 
regiment  were  returning  to  camp  from  the  intrenchments  when  the 
following  colloquy  occurred : 

"  Sergeant,''  says  one  to  the  other,  "  wouldn't  you  like  some  vege 
tables,  especially  some  good  cabbage  ?" 

"  Major,"  was  the  reply.  "  as  a  Yankee  would  say,  I  rayther  reckon 
as  how  I  would.  Vegetables !  what  a  luxury  !  Where  can  they  be 
found,  and  what  do  you  mean  ?" 

"  Aisy,  now,  as  the  Irishman  would  say.  I  have  been  reconnoiter- 
ing  lately,  and  have  found  a  large  garden  of  cabbages  ;  but  the 
owner  of  the  place  is  very  watchful,  and  swears  that  he  will  shoot 
the  first  soldier  he  catches  in  his  garden.  I  have  discovered  a  picket 
loose  at  the  bottom.  It  is  on  our  route,  and  suppose  we  make  a 
raid  and  "  cabbage'  a  mess  of  something  green." 

u  Agreed,  with  all  my  heart.    But,  Major,  what  shall  be  the  modus 

operandi .?" 

13 


290  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

u  Well,  you  watch  at  the  opening  in  the  fence,  and  I  will  go  in 
side.  If  anything  suspicious  should  happen,  whistle  and  I  will 
know  what  it  means." 

The  two  plotters  were  soon  arrived  at  the  scene  of  operations. 
It  was  a  large  garden,  extending  eastward  down  a  gentle  slope  to  a 
small  rivulet,  or  rather  ditch,  running  north  and  south.  The  open 
ing  was  soon  found.  Major  instantly  entered,  and  proceeded  in  a 
course  directly  westward,  and  then  his  form  disappeared  in  the 
murky  gloom  of  the  night.  Sergeant  sat  down  by  the  fence,  and, 
thrusting  his  head  into  the  opening  made  by  shoving  aside  the  bot 
tom  of  the  picket,  became  all  ears  and  eyes  in  his  watchfulness. 
Out  toward  the  breastworks  came  the  sound  of  the  sharp-shooters' 
rifle-shots,  with  the  occasional  roar  of  a  piece  of  artillery.  Lights 
glimmered  in  some  of  the  houses.  Mortar-shells,  with  blazing  fuses, 
described  graceful  curves  through  the  air  in  their  flight  into  the  be 
sieged  city.  The  atmosphere  was  cairn,  the  stars  looking  out  from 
the  clear  sky  overhead  as  if  angel  eyes  gazing  upon  the  din,  up 
roar  and  carnage  of  battle  below.  What  wonder  thut  the  soldier 
fell  into  a  reverie,  and  lived  once  more  amid  scenes  far  away.  What 

wonder  that .  Phiz  !  Zip  !  What  was  it  ?  Only  a  stray  Minie- 

ball,  that  made  a  close  passage  to  his  scalp,  cutting  the  hair  from 
his  head.  A  rude  awakening  from  his  pleasant  thoughts  ;  yet  still 
he  changed  not  his  position.  He  was  on  guard,  and  could,  not  de 
sert  his  post.  The  minutes  seemed  ages.  What  could  Major  be 
doing  ?  Assuredly  not  going  to  carry  off  the  whole  cabbage-bed  ! 
Yet  he  was  gone  sufficiently  long  to  accomplish  such  an  undertak 
ing.  He'd  be  hanged  if .  The  shrill  scream  of  an  approach 
ing  shell  from  a  rifled  gun  this  time  cut  short  his  new  train  of 
thought.  Knowing,  from  the  peculiar  sound,  that  he  was  nearly  in 
range,  he  looked  in  vain  for  some  sheltering  protection.  The 
ground  was  smooth  and  level,  not  a  single  indenture  to  protect  the 
smallest  object.  Action  must  be  instantaneous,  and  he  threw  him 
self  close  alongside  of  the  bottom  board  of  the  fence.  With  an 
exultant  scream  the  shell  tipped  the  pickets  above  his  prostrate 
form,  and  descended  into  the  garden  in  the  exact  direction  taken  by 
Major.  The  sergeant  jumped  to  his  feet,  and  a  shrill  whistle  broke 
upon  the  air.  Breathlessly,  intently  he  listened.  No  answering 
signal  penetrated  the  darkness  and  disturbed  the  reigning  silence. 
Again  and  again  the  signal  was  given.  Still  no  response.  Running 
rapidly  along  the  fence  a  few  yards,  he  was  about  to  climb  over 
when  Major  came  hastily  to  the  spot,  a  mountain  of  perambulating 
cabbage. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  291 

The  tension  to  which  the  nerves  of  the  sergeant  had  been  strung 
relaxed  in  invectives. 

"  Why  in  the  devil,  Major,  didn't  you  answer  my  signal  ?  I 
thought  that  shell  had  killed  you,  and  one  of  the  Third  Regiment 
would  be  found  dead  in  a  citizen's  garden,  slain  in  the  very  act 
of  stealing.  What  a  disgrace  for  a  veteran  to  be  caught  stealing ! 
People  would  have  proclaimed  'retributive  justice,'  and  'served 
him  right.' " 

*v  By  the  way  what  were  you  doing  when  that  last  customer  so 
unceremoniously  and  uninvited  visited  us  ?" 

"  Well,  you  see,  sergeant,  the  ground  is  very  hard,  and  the  cabbage 
strong-rooted,  and  I  was  stooping  down,  with  a  good  hold  on  the 
stalk  with  both  hands.  You  can  imagine  the  position  :  about  to 
give  it  a  *  strong  pull,  a  long  pull,  and  a  pull  altogether,'  when  I 

heard  that shell  coming,  and  immediately  threw  myself  upon 

the  ground." 

"  How  close  did  it  strike,  Major  ?" 

"  It  went  into  the  ground,  about  a  foot  from  my  head,  and  nearly 
buried  me  alive." 

"  I  should  judge  so,  from  your  personal  appearance,  covered  as  you 
are  with  dirt,  from  your  head  to  your  heels.  Why,  you  look  like  an 
Irish  grave-digger.  Let's  leave  this  place,  as  the  Lord  has  warned 
us  both  that  '  thou  shalt  not  steal,'  more  forcibly  than  pleasantly/' 

The  two  men  traveled  off  at  a  "  double-quick,"  carrying  their 
"  greens  "  with  them.  Arriving  in  camp,  they  soon  forgot  their 
narrow  escape,  as  they  laughed  and  talked  over  a  huge  dish  of  boiled 
cabbage,  which  was  consumed  with  a  voraciousness  and  keen  relish 
commensurate  with  the  danger  braved  in  procuring  it. 

RUNNING   THE   GAUNTLET. 

The  history  of  the  manners  and  customs  of  the  aborigines  of 
America  furnishes  some  thrilling  narratives  of  the  practice  of  treat 
ing  prisoners  in  accordance  with  the  heading  of  this  article.  It  was 
reserved  to  a  later  and  more  civilized  people  to  furnish  an  ordeal 
more  trying  to  the  nerves  than  the  one  instituted  among  the  savages. 
Every  evening  the  provision  detail  went  from  the  camp  south  of 
Vicksburg  to  the  intrenchments,  a  distance  of  over  two  miles.  The 
provisions  prepared  during  the  day  were  placed  in  a  four-mule 
wagon,  and  proceeded  to  the  regiment  every  evening  about  sun 
down,  accompanied,  usually,  by  a  man  from  each  company,  the  com 
missary-sergeant  and  several  negroes.  The  road  through  Vicksburg 
was  comparatively  safe,  but  on  arriving  at  the  upper  portion  of  the 


292  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

city,  where  it  branched  off  in  a  north-easterly  direction,  the  party 
were  in  direct  range  of  the  mortar-shells.  As  soon  as  the  danger 
became  imminent,  they  would  halt,  listen  for  the  dull  roar  of  the 
mortars,  and  wait  for  the  passage  of  the  terrible  missiles.  Their 
descent  or  explosion  was  the  signal  for  a  hot  race,  ere  the  next  mes 
senger  of  death  was  launched  upon  the  city.  Men,  mules  and  wagon 
stampeded  in  a  hot  race  along  the  road,  for  life  and  death  was  prob 
ably  the  issue  of  their  speed.  There  were  no  spare  moments  for 
shouting  or  laughter  then.  Arriving  about  half  way  to  the  trenches, 
the  party  would  take  a  good  breathing  spell,  ere  again  proceeding  to 
confront  a  new  danger,  from  which  there  could  be  no  escape.  Yet  there 
was  no  shrinking,  as  they  faced  the  flying  bullets  and  rifle-shells 
from  beyond  the  line  of  works.  The  rifle-balls  would  cut  up  the 
dirt  in  the  road,  or  shrilly  whistle  through  the  air,  in  their  rapid 
flight.  Accustomed  as  men  may  become  in  braving  danger  during 
moments  of  intense  excitement,  it  required  a  steadiness  of  nerve  and 
firm  resolution  to  quietly  proceed  along  a  road,  into  which  bullets 
were  constantly  dipping,  or  over  which  they  were  flying  from  an 
enfilading  fire.  Such,  however,  was  the  case  with  the  provision  de 
tail  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry.  There  were  innumerable  hair 
breadth  escapes  and  laughable  occurrences  attending  their  daily 
journey  to  and  from  the  intrenchments ;  yet,  during  the  whole  siege, 
not  a  man  among  them  received  the  slightest  injury.  The  long  races 
from  flying  shells  and  descending  bombs  in  those  hot  June  days  are 
indelibly  impressed  upon  the  memories  of  all  of  that  band.  They 
braved  the  dangers  of  the  siege  without  any  of  the  excitement  that 
buoyed  up  the  dashing  bravery  of  those  who  occupied  the  intrench 
ments.  Though  often  with  flying  feet  spurring  the  dust  of  the  road 
to  escape  threatening  death,  no  one  would  question  their  courage. 
Theirs  was  a  cool,  dispassionate  courage,  worthy  the  fame  and  hero 
ism  which  made  the  regiment  notorious.  As  non-combatants  it  was 
somewhat  laughable  to  observe  with  what  earnestness  and  care  they 
selected  the  safest  route  to  escape  the  line  of  fire.  Boys,  do  you  re 
member  it  all  now  without  the  aid  of  this  notice  ?  We  do,  distinctly 
and  most  emphatically. 


CHAPTER    XXXI. 

SONGS. 

THE  men  often  indulged  their  propensity  for  song- writing,  and  if 
their  productions  did  not  exhibit  splendid  poetical  talent,  the  senti 
ments  of  these  songs  manifested  the  spirit  which  animated  them, 
their  reckless  disregard  to  danger,  and  their  propensity  to  make 
mirth  out  of  their  sufferings.  It  was  no  unusual  occurrence  to  hear, 
amid  the  battle's  fierce  din,  the  choruses  of  these  songs  shouted  forth 
with  stentorian  voices,  or  their  strains  at  night  softly  floating  away 
over  the  intrenchments  on  the  quiet  air. 

OUR  FLAG. 

BY  W.  M.  WASHBURN,  CO.  B. 
Air  :  "  Her  bright  smile  haunts  me  still." 

I. 
There  is  freedom  on  each  fold, 

And  each  star  is  freedom's  throne, 
And  the  free,  the  brave,  the  bold, 
Guard  thine  honor  as  their  own. 
Every  clanger  hast  thou  known, 

That  the  battle's  storm  can  fill ; 
Thy  glory  hath  not  flown  ; 
We  proudly  wave  thee  still. 

ii. 

Floating  in  the  morning  light, 

Freedom's  star  will  shine  afar 
Floating  in  the  murky  night, 
All  shall  see  thee,  freedom's  star. 
For  "  sic  semper  "  thy  refrain ; 
And  thy  motto  e'er  shall  be, 
Let  tyrants  wear  the  chain ; 
I  am,  I  will  be  free. 


294:  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

in. 
O'er  the  land  and  o'er  tlie  seas, 

Where  the  howling  waves  are  torn ; 
In  the  calm,  the  storm,  the  breeze, 
Be  thy  standard  proudly  borne. 

For  there's  freedom  on  each  fold, 

And  each  star  is  freedom's  throne ; 
The  free,  the  brave,  the  bold  ; 
Thy  glory  is  their  own. 


A  LIFE  ON  THE  VICKSBURG  HILLS. 

BY   A.    DALSHEIMER,    CO.    K. 
Air  ;  "  Life  on  the  Ocean  Wave." 
A  life  on  the  Vicksburg  hills, 

A  home  in  the  trenches  deep, 
A  dodge  from  the  Yankee  shells, 
And  the  old  pea-bread  won't  keep. 

The  bread — the  bread — 
And  the  old  pea-bread  won't  keep. 

Like  a  rebel  caged,  I  pine, 

And  I  dodge  when  the  cannons  roar ; 
But  give  me  corn-dodger  and  swine, 

And  I'll  stay  for  evermore. 

Once  more  in  the  trench  I  stand, 
With  my  own  far-ranging  gun  ; 

Should  the  fray  come  hand  to  hand, 
I'll  wager  my  rations  I  run. 

The  trench  is  no  longer  in  view ; 

The  shells  have  begun  to  fall ; 
'Tis  a  sound  I  hate — don't  you  ? 

Into  my  rat-hole  I'll  crawl.  0 

The  bullets  may  whistle  by, 

The  terrible  bombs  come  down  ; 
But  give  me  full  rations,  and  I 

Will  stay  in  my  hole  in  the  ground. 
Oh  !  a  life  on  the  Vicksburg  hills, 

A  home  in  the  trenches  deep, 
A  dodge  from  the  Yankee  shells, 
And  the  old  pea-bread  won't  keep. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  295 

DO  THEY  MISS  ME  IN  THE  TRENCH. 

BY   J.    W.    NAFF.* 
Air  :  "  Do  they  miss  me  at  home." 
Do  they  miss  me  in  the  trench,  do  they  miss  me  ? 

When  the  shells  fly  so  thickly  around  ? 
Do  they  know  that  I've  run  down  the  hill-side 

To  look  for  my  hole  in  the  ground  ? 
But  the  shells  exploded  so  near  me, 

It  seemed  best  for  me  to  run  ; 
And  though  some  laughed  as  I  cray-fished, 

I  could  not  discover  the  fun. 

I  often  get  up  in  the  trenches, 

When  some  Yankee  is  near  out  of  sight, 
And  fire  a  round  or  two  at  him, 

To  make  the  boys  think  that  I'll  fight. 
But  when  the  Yanks  commence  shelling, 

I  run  to  my  home  down  the  hill, 
I  swear  my  legs  never  will  stay  there, 

Though  all  may  stay  there  who  will. 

I'll  save  myself  through  the  dread  struggle, 

And  when  the  great  battle  is  oe'r 
I'll  claim  my  full  rations  of  laurels, 

As  always  I've  done  heretofore. 
I'll  say  that  I've  fought  them  as  bravely 

As  the  best  of  my  comrades  who  fell, 
And  swear  most  roundly  to  all  others 

That  I  never  had  fears  of  a  shell. 


THE  RAINBOW  OF  HOPE. 

BY  W.  M.  WASHBUEJST,  CO.  B. 

Air  :  "  Life  on  the  Wave." 
There's  the  rainbow  of  Hope  in  the  moonlit  sky, 

Man  the  works— fling  trembling  away,  my  boys, 
The  breeze  is  soft,  our  God  is  on  high, 

He  will  shield  us,  if  we  are  still  true,  my  boys. 
We  have  slept  in  the  calm,  we  have  laughed  in  the  storm, 

We  will  sing  by  the  bomb's  red  glare,  my  boys ; 
Should  the  foe  come  on,  with  a  strong  heart  and  arm, 

And  a  keen  blade,  we'll  send  him  away,  my  boys. 
*  Killed  the  day  after  writing  this  song. 


296  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

And  the  rainbow  of  Hope,  while  it  lingers  still, 

We  will  strike  for  the  dear  ones  of  home,  my  boys. 
"We  will  trust  to  our  blades,  and  to  God's  good  will, 

And  fling  ever  fear  to  the  winds,  my  boys. 
We  will  bear  every  hardship,  or  peril,  or  pain, 

For  our  loved  ones  are  trusting  to  us,  niy  boys, 
And  we'll  proudly  return  to  greet  them  again, 

Or  as  proudly  fill  a  soldier's  grave,  my  boys. 

Light  hearts  we  bring  to  rescue  our  land, 

Though  a  shadow  has  hung  o'er  her  of  late,  my  boys. 
We  will  strike  for  our  homes  with  a  steady  hand, 

And  a  smile  for  whate'er  be  our  fate,  my  boys. 
Though  some  may  sleep  'neath  the  hill-side  sod, 

Though  none  go  back  to  their  homes,  my  boys, 
Yet  the  hearts  that  are  true  to  their  country  and  God, 

Will  all  meet  at  the  last  reveille,  my  boys. 


The  following  letter  needs  no  comment : 

HEADQUARTERS,  ARMSTRONG'S  BRIGADE,) 
Athens,  East  Tennessee,  July  22d,  1863.    f 

SIR — General  Armstrong  desires  to  know  the  casualties  in  the 
Third  Louisiana  Infantry  in  the  campaign  from  Grand  Gulf  to  the 
capitulation  of  Vicksburg,  and  the  part  taken  by  that  regiment  in 
heroic  defence  of  that  place.  He  feels  confident  that  they  have  sus 
tained  their  former  blood-earned  reputation,  and,  as  a  source  of 
gratification,  he  desires  to  know  its  conduct  and  its  losses. 

He  offers  his  sincere  congratulations  upon  its  prospect  of  soon  re 
suming  the  field,  and,  notwithstanding  its  depleted  numbers,  hopes 
the  war-cry  of  the  "  Bloody  Third "  will  be  heard  loudest  in  the 
battle-din  soon  again. 

He  tenders  his  respects  to  his  many  friends  in  the  regiment. 
I  have  the  honor  to  be,  very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

A.  BURWELL,  A.  A.  G. 
Officer  commanding  Third  Louisiana  Infantry. 

P.  S. — Let  the  memory  of  Ben  McCulloch  nerve  them  to  even 
more  heroic  deeds  in  future.  F.  C.  ARMSTRONG. 

OUR   SURGEONS. 

Dr.  Moss,  who  was  appointed  surgeon  of  the  regiment,  was  a  pri 
vate  in  the  ranks  of  Company  I.  He  was  born  in  Wilkinson  County, 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  297 

Miss.,  March  19, 1837.  He  graduated  in  the  Medical  Department  of 
the  University  of  Louisiana  in  March,  1861,  with  great  credit  to 
himself  and  his  class.  He  was  among  the  first  to  answer  his 
country's  call.  The  absence  of  all  official  documents  and  dates 
makes  it  impossible  to  give  the  exact  period  of  his  appointment  as 
assistant  surgeon,  and  finally  as  surgeon  of  the  regiment.  He  en 
deared  himself  to  every  member  of  the  regiment  by  his  unvarying 
kindness  and  attention  to  the  sick  and  general  aifability.  His  was 
a  heart  as  tender  as  a  woman's  He  was  surgeon  of  the  regiment 
at  its  final  dissolution  in  Shreveport  in  1865.  Returning  home,  full 
of  bright  hope  and  youthful  vigor,  skilled  in  all  the  branches  of 
his  profession,  he  found  an  early  grave.  He  died  August  3,  1865, 
aged  28  years  and  4  months.  He  needs  no  eulogy  from  the  author's 
pen,  as  he  lives  fresh  and  green  in  the  heart  of  every  brave  soldier  of 
the  Third  Louisianians. 

Dr.  P.  F.  Whitehead  is  a  native  of  Kentucky,  and  had  been  a 
resident  of  the  State  of  Missouri  a  year  previous  to  the  war.  He 
was  appointed  surgeon  of  the  First  Regiment,  Missouri  State  Guard, 
that  was  organized. 

Continuing  with  Price's  army,  he  was  eventually  appointed  sur 
geon  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry  shortly  after  its  reorganiza 
tion. 

He  remained  with  the  regiment  all  through  its  long,  wearisome 
marches  and  desperate  battles,  until  it  was  eventually  confined 
within  the  intrenchments  of  Vicksburg. 

Dr.  Whitehead  was  most  thoroughly  skilled  in  every  branch  of 
his  profession.  He  soon  endeared  himself  to  the  men  by  his  untir 
ing  efforts  to  relieve  their  sufferings,  and  his  unvarying  politeness  of 
manner  and  genial  affability.  Of  fine  personal  appearance,  refined 
and  polished  in  manners,  it  is  not  surprising  that  the  men  learned 
both  to  admire  and  respect  him.  No  higher  compliment  can  be 
paid  to  his  skill  as  a  surgeon — no  statement  attest  the  confidence 
placed  in  that  skill — than  the  mention  of  the  fact  that,  at  Vicks 
burg,  every  member  of  the  regiment  requiring  the  amputation  of  a 
limb,  or  some  delicate  surgical  operation,  would  allow  no  other 
physician  to  operate  on  them  except  Dr.  P.  F.  Whitehead.  Innu 
merable  scientific  and  skillful  operations  have  we  witnessed  per 
formed  by  him.  All  through  tho  eventful  siege  he  was  untiring, 
unceasingly  occupied. 

After  the  fall  of  that  place  he  became  Senior  Surgeon  of  Scott's 
Louisiana  Brigade,  which  position  he  retained  until  the  commence 
ment  of  General  Johnston's  famous  Georgia  campaign,  when  he 
13* 


298  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

was  assigned  to  duty  as  chief  surgeon  of  Loring's  Division.  He 
occupied  this  situation  until  the  close  of  the  war,  and  was  sur 
rendered  with  the  army  at  Greensboro,  N.  C.,  April  26,  1865.  Dr. 
P.  F.  Whitehead  is  now  practicing  his  profession  in  Vicksburg— the 
scene  of  some  of  his  most  arduous  labors  during  the  war. 


CHAPTER    XXXII. 

EAST  OF  THE  MISSISSIPPI. 

WHO  of  the  war-worn  veterans  of  the  Third  Regiment,  Louisiana 
Infantry,  does  not  remember  the  first  return  home  from  the  army, 
since  the  inception  of  the  war,  after  that  memorable  siege  of  Vicks- 
burg  ?  How  the  heart  throbbed  quick  and  strong,  as  the  soldier 
approached  the  well-known  homestead !  His  footsteps,  though 
spurning  the  earth  in  quick  strides  beneath  his  hastening  feet,  kept 
not  pace  with  his  eager  spirit.  Very  often  he  unexpectedly  reached 
his  hearth-stone.  What  a  welcome  does  he  receive  !  The  clasp  of 
loving  arms  around  his  form,  and  the  imprint  of  warm  lips,  again 
and  again  upon  his  own  browned  and  bearded  face.  Then  there 
were  innumerable  questions  showered  upon  him,  and  the  thrilling 
recital  of  the  siege  rehearsed,  with  all  its  horrors  and  heroism. 
Then  he  must  needs  have  his  long  hair  shorn,  and  his  face  subjected 
to  the  tonsorial  art ;  change  his  faded  and  soiled  gray  uniform  for 
the  garments  of  a  quiet  citizen  at  home;  and  behold  the  rough 
veteran  metamorphosed  into  the  good-looking,  respectable  gentle 
man  at  home.  Who  would  ever  dream  that  this  pleasant,  sociable 
man  was,  but  a  few  days  previously,  the  reckless  soldier,  standing 
where  bullets  filled  the  air  like  drops  of  summer  rain,  ready  for 
any  species  of  danger  or  rascality  ?  Truly  the  changes  of  life  are 
wonderfully  strange  !  How  unnatural  did  it  seem  to  be  free  once 
more ;  free  in  the  full  meaning  and  acceptation  of  the  word ;  no 
more  prompt  obedience  to  military  orders ;  no  more  following  the 
beck  and  nod  of  some  officer !  Is  it  a  dream  ?  Free  !  to  go  and 
come  as  he  pleases !  It  is  incomprehensible.  Wake  up  1  shake 
yourself,  man,  for  it  is  a  reality.  Those  halcyon  days  at  home! 
They  were  the  golden  sunbeams  that  shed  a  flood  of  soft  radiance 
over  the  whole  soul  of  the  paroled  soldier.  Now  commenced  a 
life  of  enjoyment,  while  the  days  of  probation  existed,  for  it  was 
uncertain  when  they  would  again  be  summoned  to  take  up  arms. 
Social  gatherings',  balls,  parties,  fishing  and  hunting  were  freely  in 
dulged  in,  as  the  inclination  or  situation  of  the  soldier  made  neces 
sary.  They  were  scattered  over  the  State  in  city,  town,  hamlet  and 
country,  and  made  the  best  possible  use  of  their  freedom. 


CHAPTER   XXXIII. 

DEMOPOLIS,   ALA. 

THE  halcyon  days  of  the  furlough  have  expired,  and  the  men 
once  more  begin  to  congregate  at  this  point,  in  obedience  to  pub 
lished  orders. 

In  the  latter  part  of  August,  1863,  a  few  members  of  the  Third 
Regiment  were  assembled  in  camp.  These  were  men  whose  homes 
generally  were  within  the  enemy's  lines,  and  who  were  too  true  in 
their  devotion  to  the  Southern  cause,  too  uncompromising  in  their 
spirit  of  hostility  to  seek  their  homes,  thus  situated,  only,  perhaps, 
to  subject  themselves  to  restrictions  on  their  freedom  of  word  and 
action. 

The  camp  at  Demopolis  was  in  an  old,  uncultivated  field,  beneath 
the  shelter  of  some  huge  oak-trees.  The  Confederates  were  with 
out  tents  or  cooking  utensils.  They  constructed  some  rude  bunks 
and  shelters  beneath  the  overshadowing  branches  of  the  trees,  and 
accepted  the  "  situation"  with  a  truly  commendable  spirit.  The 
whole  command  did  not  number  twenty-five  men.  Near  the  spot 
selected  were  the  quarters  of  General  Hebert.  Of  course,  he  was 
always  to  be  found  near  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry,  whom  he  had 
so  often  led  in  battle,  and  who  respected  and  honored  him  for  his 
soldierly  qualities.  Without  the  shadow  of  a  doubt,  the  men  and 
the  General  mutually  admired  and  respected  each  other,  although 
the  one  would  frequently  complain,  in  no.  very  choice  language,  of 
the  strict  discipline  enforced  by  the  other,  or  his  seeming  spirit  of  op 
position  to  their  wishes  and  denial  of  their  frequent  requests.  The 
men  had  nothing  to  do  at  Demopolis  save  eat,  drink,  sleep,  read 
and  make  merry  over  their  haps  and  mishaps.  "  Idleness,"  we  are 
told,  "  is  the  devil's  workshop," — a  saying  often  verified  by  these 
veterans.  They  wandered  over  the  country  around  Demopolis  on  all 
kinds  of  expeditions.  Not  a  house,  or  highway  or  by-way  but  was 
explored  and  well  known.  The  Tombigbee  River,  close  at  hand, 
was  very  convenient  for  bathing  and  expeditions  in  boats,  both  of 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  301 

which  were  frequent  occurrences.  The  evening  was  usually  the 
signal  for  a  general  gathering  at  the  camp,  and  an  indulgence  in 
scenes  of  uproarious  mirth  and  frolics — dancing  and  singing  being 
the  chief  amusements.  No  one  interfered  with  their  hilarity,  and 
they  were  allowed  to  make  as  much  noise  as  they  wished.  No  one 
was  near  to  be  disturbed  by  it. 

One  day  four  members  of  the  regiment  started  out  on  an  explor 
ing  expedition,  and  to  visit  a  distillery  some  miles  from  camp.  They 
traveled  nearly  all  day  without  accomplishing  their  object,  and 
finally  became  lost  in  the  swamp.  Here  was  a  predicament.  Spread 
ing  out,  at  short  distances,  like  a  line  of  skirmishers,  they  pushed 
forward  in  expectation  of  discovering  some  road.  They  were 
eventually  successful,  and  finally  reached  the  Tombigbee,  many  long 
miles  above  camp.  There  was  a  crossing  at  the  place,  where  they 
struck  the  river  ;  but  the  boats  were  on  the  opposite  side.  What 
was  to  be  done  ?  After  a  short  consultation  two  of  the  party 
stripped,  plunged  into  the  broad  stream  and  boldly  swam  across. 
It  required  but  a  few  moments  to  unmoor  a  boat,  obtain  the  re 
mainder  of  the  party,  and  row  rapidly  down  the  stream.  They 
were  now  in  high  spirits,  and  awoke  the  slumbering  echoes  along 
the  shores  with  shouts  and  songs.  As  they  descended,  they  stopped 
at  several  landings  and  purchased  water-melons,  until  they  had  a 
full  cargo  on  board.  The  party  arrived  in  camp  during  the  "  wee 
sm.V  "  hours  of  the  night,  completely  worn  out  with  fatigue.  The 
melons  were  sold  the  next  day,  netting  a  profit  of  seventeen  dollars 
in  Confederate  money. 

On  the  30th  of  August  a  flag  reached  camp,  being  the  gift  of 
General  Maury,  our  old  division  commander.  This  token  of  esteem 
and  remembrance  on  the  part  of  a  general  whom  the  men  had 
learned  to  love  and  respect  was  highly  appreciated.  The  flag  was 
a  Beauregard  battle-flag,  having  inscribed  on  it— Oak  Hills,  Elk 
Horn,  luka,  Corinth  and  Vicksburg.  It  was  soon  gayly  floating  on 
the  breeze,  above  the  quarters  of  the  regiment. 

On  the  2d  September  camp  was  transferred  from  Dernopolis,  Ala., 
to  Enterprise,  Miss.  The  detachment  had  a  lively  trip  to- the  latter 
place.  The  encampment  selected  at  Enterprise  was  in  the  pine 
woods,  about  a  mile  from  the  town.  Some  system  was  observed 
here,  and  each  regiment  had  its  own  quarters  in  regular  succession. 
About  twenty-five  of  the  Third  Regiment  and  four  hundred  of  the 
brigade  were  in  camp  on  the  14th  of  September. 

On  the  15th  it  was  reported  that  15,000  of  the  Vicksburg  prisoners 
were  exchanged,  and  that  the  Louisiana  regiments  were  to  report 


302  A   SOUTHEKN   RECORD. 

to  General  II.  W.  Allen,  at  Shreveport.  Of  course,  such  a  statement 
created  great  excitement,  especially  among  the  band  of  the  Third 
Louisiana  Infantry  represented  at  Enterprise.  Many  of  them  were 
eager  to  unite  their  fates  with  the  fortunes  of  the  regiment,  while 
others  talked  of  joining  the  cavalry.  Yet  no  permissions  were 
granted  for  the  men  east  of  the  Mississippi  to  join  their  comrades 
in  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department.  It  was  an  idle,  lazy  life 
which  the  paroled  troops  led  in  camp,  with  no  duties  to  perform, 
or  anything  to  occupy  their  time  and  attention.  Of  course,  they 
must  have  some  excitement. 

One  night  very  late  several  of  the  regiment  came  into  camp  very 
noisy,  from  having  imbibed,  what  they  termed,  too  much  "  torch 
light  procession."  The  occupants  of  the  various  bunks  were  un 
ceremoniously  roused  from  their  slumbers  and  pulled  out  of  bed. 
A  tall,  droll  member  of  Company  K  (J.  Barrat),  who  looked  much 
like  an  Indian,  concluded  he  would  have  a  menagerie  performance 
out  of  a  certain  member  of  Company  H.  Every  one  remembers  J. 
R.  Nash.  He  was  a  strong,  stout-built  man,  hailed  from  the 
mountain  regions  of  Tennessee,  and  was  as  good-natured  as  he  was 
powerful.  The  Company  K  man  went  to  Nash's  bunk,  rudely  shook 
him,  and  shouted : 

"  Get  up  Nash,  and  paw  like  a  goat,  and  I'll  give  you  a  drink." 
Nash  obeyed ;  a  ring  was  formed ;  he  pawed  up  the  ground  with 
one  foot,  spit  and  spluttered  like  a  goat,  ending  the  performance 
with  a  "  Baa-a-aa  "  that  would  have  shamed  the  veritable  king  of 
the  tribe.  It  is  needless  to  state  that  the  ridiculous  performance  was 
received  with  loud  shouts  and  laughter  by  the  crowd  of  witnesses, 
and  the  promised  reward  instantly  handed  to  him.  The  next  morn 
ing  an  order  was  received  from  General  Hebert,  whose  headquarters 
were  near  by,  that  there  must  be  less  noise  in  camp.  Was  it  obeyed  ? 
Nearly  all  the  pines  in  and  around  camp  were  blazed,  and  the  resin 
ous  substance  which  oozed  from  the  wood  would  burn  readily  and 
fiercely.  That  night,  suddenly,  every  pine-tree  broke  into  a  brilliant 
blaze,  while  all  the  sheds  and  shelters  as  unaccountably  caught  fire. 
"  Fire  !  fire  1"  was  shouted,  with  the  full  power  of  stentorian  lungs, 
when  a  voice  would  shout,  "  Stop  that  noise.  It's  against  orders. 
No  noise  in  camp.  General  Hebert  will  arrest  you  all."  It  is  quite 
needless  to  state  that  no  notice  was  taken  of  this  strict  obedience  to 
orders,  while  General  Hebert  is  reported  to  have  remarked,  "  It  is 
useless  to  notice  the  boys  ;  they  will  have  their  fun,  despite  military 
rules  and  regulations." 

On  the  22d  General  Allen  arrived  at  Enterprise,  and  was  eagerly 


THIED   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  303 

sought  by  many  of  the  members  of  the  regiment,  who  wished  to 
cross  the  river.  He  gave  them  no  definite  encouragement,  but  said 
that  he  would  like  to  have  them  with  him,  and  thought  that  no 
harm  would  result  from  their  joining  their  commands,  provided  they 
could  get  through  the  lines.  Ah,  there  was  the  rub  !  Major  H.  F. 
Springer,  formerly  a  member  of  Company  G,  was  running  the  block 
ade  of  the  Mississippi  with  Government  dispatches  and  ammunition. 
He  needed  teamsters,  and  wished  to  obtain  them  from  the  regiment. 
His  request  was  refused.  However,  several  volunteered  to  go  at  7 
p.  M.  On  the  night  of  the  26th,  five  men  left  camp  with  their  knap 
sacks  on  their  backs,  bidding  their  comrades  good-bye,  who  jocu 
larly  remarked,  "  We  expect  to  see  you  back,  in  charge  of  the  cav 
alry,  in  three  or  four  days."  The  next  morning,  at  8  A.  M.,  this  same 
party  reached  Shubuta,  after  marching  all  night,  and  making  thirty- 
five  miles.  They  were  soon  in  charge  of  Major  Springer's  teams  and 
wagons,  bound  for  the  Trans-Mississippi.  Captains  Richards  and 
Middlebrooks  succeeded  in  obtaining  permits  to  join  their  companies, 
and  had  left  some  days  previously.  Captain  Gentles,  held  under 
arrest  by  General  Pemberton's  orders,  had  tendered  his  resignation 
to  the  War  Department,  but  it  was  not  then  accepted.  He  eventu 
ally  became  the  leader  of  a  party  of  mounted  scouts.  The  regiment 
could  not  boast  of  a  braver,  more  daring  or  efficient  officer  than  H. 
H.  Gentles.  The  officers  eventually  remaining  in  camp  were  Captain 
Brashear  and  Lieutenant  Thomas,  Company  E ;  Lieutenant  A.  B. 
Payne,  Company  K  ;  W.  T.  Fagan,  Company  E. 

Some  time  in  December,  1863,  the  paroled  prisoners  were  declared 
exchanged,  and  were  armed  and  equipped,  the  detachment  of  the 
Third  Regiment  doing  some  duty  in  Enterprise.  After  General 
Polk  superseded  General  Hardee  in  command  of  the  paroled  troops, 
he  issued  an  order  for  the  consolidation  into  one  regiment  the  men 
of  the  Third,  Seventeenth,  Twenty-first,  Twenty-second,  Twenty- 
sixth,  Twenty-seventh,  Twenty-eighth  and  Thirty-first  Louisiana  In 
fantry,  who  were  on  the  east  side  of  tire  river.  They  were  divided 
into  companies,  the  men  being  allowed  the  privilege  of  selecting 
their  company  officers  from  any  of  the  officers  of  these  regiments, 
not  absent  without  leave.  The  Third  Regiment  formed  one  com 
pany,  designated  as  Company  H,  with  the  following  officers  :  Cap 
tain,  C.  H.  Brashear ;  First  Lieutenant,  J.  P.  Parsons,  (Seventeenth 
Louisiana)  ;  Second  Lieutenant,  W.  T.  Fagan ;  Second  Jr.  Lieuten 
ant,  A.  J.  Thomas.  First  Sergeant,  C.  Hurley ;  Second  do.,  A.  B. 
Booth  ;  Third  do.,  J.  Roddy;  Fourth  do.,  T.  Williams.  First  Cor 
poral,  W.  E.  Walker ;  Second  do.,  J.  F.  Chambers ;  Third  do.,  W. 


304  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

B.  Sheffield;  Fourth  do.,  "R.  J.  Galloway.  The  members  of  the 
Twenty-seventh,  Twenty-eighth,  and  Thirty-first  selected  Lieutenant 
A.  B.  Payne  as  Second  Sr.  Lieutenant  of  their  Company  F.  The 
officers  retained  the  same  rank  in  the  Twenty-second  Louisiana  In 
fantry  as  in  their  old  regiments.  The  company  officers  selected  the 
following  field  officers  :  Colonel,  J.  W.  Patton ;  Lieutenant-Colonel, 

Landry;  Major,  Washington  Marks.     Early  in  January,  1864, 

this  organization,  known  as  the  Twenty-second  Louisiana  Heavy 
Artillery  (the  greatest  number  of  men  being  from  that  regiment), 
was  ordered  to  Mobile,  and  stationed  in  the  redoubts  and  forts  around 
the  city.  u  The  little  squad  comprising  Company  H,"  says  an  officer, 
"  was  recognized  as  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry,  from  the  Secretary 
of  War  down  to  the  particular  friend  of  the  regiment,  General  Louis 
Hebert."  "  The  remainder  of  the  regiment  were  always  reported  as 
absent  without  leave."  Until  the  consolidation,  orders  were  always 

addressed  to  Captain or  Lieutenant ,  Commanding  Third 

Louisiana.  A  few  officers  and  men  remained  on  the  east  side,  because 
it  was  in  exact  conformity  to  orders,  and  because  they  believed  that 
their  services  were  more  needed  there  than  in  the  Trans-Mississippi 
Department.  Many,  perhaps  a  majority,  were  influenced  by  mixed 
motives,  their  homes  and  friends  being  on  the  east  side  of  the  Mis 
sissippi.  There  "  was  always  a  deep  longing  for  a  reunion  with  their 
old  comrades,  with  whom  they  had  shared  so  many  dangers  and 
privations."  It  was  this  same  magnet  of  homes  and  friends  that 
led  the  mass  of  the  regiment  across  the  Mississippi  River,  afterwards 
followed  by  those  who  wished  to  link  their  fate  with  the  final  for 
tunes  of  the  regiment.  Of  the  organization  of  the  regiment  and  its 
final  destiny,  this  work  will  give  full  particulars. 

In  the  spring  of  1864,  nearly  all  the  troops  at  Mobile  were  sent  to 
reinforce  General  Johnston's  army.  The  Twenty-second  Regiment 
was  sent  across  the  bay  to  Pollard,  a  station  on  the  railroad,  from  a 
point  opposite  Mobile  to  Montgomery.  The  summer  passed  away 
very  quietly.  Only  on  one  occasion  were  the  enthusiasm  and  hopes 
of  the  men  excited ;  by  the  regiment  being  sent  across  the  line  into 
Florida,  to  repel  a  raid  of  the  enemy  from  Pensacola.  The  object 
of  the  expedition  was  accomplished  without  fighting,  save  by  the 
cavalry.  When  Farragut  attacked  the  forts  below  Mobile,  the  regi 
ment  was  ordered  to  Fort  Gaines.  The  steamboat  which  was  first 
sent  broke  some  of  her  machinery.  Another  was  sent,  and  the  com 
mand  arrived  in  the  lower  bay,  just  in  time  to  witness  the  close  of 
the  naval  engagement.  An  hour  earlier,  and  the  regiment  would 
have  been  in  the  fort,  thus  narrowly  escaping  capture  by  making  a 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  305 

hasty  retreat  to  Mobile.  Soon  after,  Company  H  was  ordered  to 
Battery  Tracy,  in  the  bay  ;  Companies  A,  D  and  F,  to  Spanish  Fort. 
Here,  during  the  fall  and  winter,  all  the  men  were  sick  with  chills 
and  fever,  Lieutenant  Thomas  being  the  only  exception  to  the  general 
rule. 

In  February,  1865,  Canby,  with  70,000  men,  attacked  Spanish 
Fort  and  Blakely.  At  Tracy  and  other  batteries  in  the  bay,  there 
were  from  one  to  three  companies  of  heavy  artillery,  of  the  First 
and  Second  Louisiana,  etc.,  in  all  about  5,000  men.  A  stubborn 
fight  ensued,  continuing  for  two  weeks.  The  soldiers,  who  so  des 
perately  fought  the  foe  behind  the  intrenchments  of  Vicksburg,  did 
not  quail  or  tremble  under  the  heavy  fire  poured  upon  them.  'Twas 
only  a  rehearsal  of  an  already  familiar  drama. 

On  the  7th  of  April  the  fort  fell,  most  of  the  garrison  escaping  to 
Tracy  and  Blakely.  The  next  day  this  place  also  fell,  and  Tracy 
was  evacuated  a  few  days  afterwards.  The  evacuation  and  surrender 
of  Mobile  quickly  followed  the  fall  of  the  forts.  When  the  boat,  on 
board  of  which  was  Company  H,  backed  out  from  the  landing,  the 
Federals  were  seen  in  the  streets  of  the  city.  M.  C.  Aldrich,  Frank 
Goodwin  (a  member  of  Company  D,  shot  in  the  ankle)  and  Lieu 
tenant  A.  B.  Payne,  were  the  only  members  of  the  old  Third  Regi 
ment  in  Spanish  Fort,  the  remainder  being  at  Tracy.  During  the 
most  of  the  fight,  they  were  under  a  severe  fire  from  the  enemy's 
guns,  firing  over  Spanish  Fort,  and  also  from  the  vessels  in  the  har 
bor.  How  did  these  bronzed,  yet  youthful  heroes  of  Vicksburg  and 
other  hard-fought  engagements,  stand  the  trying  ordeal  ?  As  only 
brave  men  will,  with  an  unflinching  bravery,  a  heroic  devotion  and 
patient  endurance,  such  as  only  noble,  unconquerable  spirits  can 
exhibit  in  times  of  danger.  The  roll  of  this  company,  annexed,  con 
tains  the  names  of  some  of  the  best  and  truest  soldiers  of  the  Third 
Regiment.  After  the  evacuation  of  Mobile,  the  regiment  proceeded 
to  Meridian,  and  remained  at  that  point  and  its  vicinity  until  the 
final  surrender  of  the  troops  under  General  Taylor  to  General  Canby. 
Like  their  comrades  in  the  Trans-Mississippi,  they  were  among  the 
very  last  to  leave  the  waning  star  of  the  Confederacy,  sinking  into 
the  gloom  of  a  long  night. 

AN   INCIDENT. 

On  Monday,  May  25,  during  the  flag  of  truce,  following  the  general 
charge  upon  our  lines,  while  the  troops  of  each  army  were  out  on 
neutral  ground,  W.  B.  McGinness,  of  the  Iberville  Grays,  met  an 
old  Dutch  friend  from  Missouri  who  belonged  to  a  Missouri  (Federal) 


306  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

regiment.  After  exchanging  compliments,  etc.,  the  Federal  politely 
invited  McGinness  to  his  camp  to  take  supper,  get  some  papers,  anc 
last,  but  not  least,  to  join  him  in  a  social  drink.  McGinuess  wa? 
too  modest  to  refuse  the  kind  and  liberal  invitation  of  his  Dutch 
friend,  and  not  selfish  enough  to  partake  of  the  luxuries  which 
arose  before  his  mental  vision  (a  rarity  to  a  rebel  appetite)  by  him 
self;  so  he  kindly  extends  the  invitation  to  several  of  his  friends. 
Octave  Bevin,  of  Iberville  Grays,  Company  A ;  Sergeant  C.  Hurley, 
of  the  Pelican  Rifles,  Company  K  ;  and  Louis  Eddons,  of  Monti- 
cello  Rifles,  Company  H,  who  willingly  acceded  to  McGinness's  re 
quest  to  accompany  him,  went  to  the  Dutch  friend's  camp,  were 
kindly  received  by  the  Yankees  who  belonged  to  regiments  that  had 
fought  ours  (Third  Louisiana)  at  Oak  Hills.  Met  John  Nagle,  who 
had  deserted  from  the  regiment  at  Camp  Creek  and  joined  the 
Northern  Army.  The  party  imbibed  several  drinks,  and  then  sat 
down  to  supper,  which  was  unceremoniously  interrupted  by  the  ap 
pearance  of  a  lieutenant  and  guard,  with  orders  to  arrest  the  party 
for  being  within  the  Yankee  lines.  They  were  marched  to  General 
Quimby's  headquarters.  The  General  was  perplexed  what  to  do 
with  them,  whether  to  retain  them  as  prisoners  of  war  or  to  send 
them  back ;  to  their  command.  While  here,  McGinness  entered  into 
conversation  with  Captain  Barton,  of  New  York,  A.  D.  C.  to  the 
General,  and  soon  discovered  that  he  (McGinness)  knew  a  number  of 
the  Captain's  friends  in  California.  The  Captain  became  interested 
and  sympathetic — proposed  to  the  General  to  permit  him  to  take 
the  "  rebels"  to  Major-General  McPherson's  headquarters  and  let 
him  dispose  of  them.  The  Generel  consented.  Captain  Barton 
relieved  the  guard  and  took  the  men  to  McPherson's  headquarters. 
He  informed  the  General  of  the  circumstances  of  the  party  coming 
into  their  lines.  The  General  onsideratetly  consented  to  send  them 
back.  He  ordered  Captain  Barton  and  the  lieutenant  to  escort 
them  to  their  lines. 

These  boys  of  the  Third  Louisiana  were  particularly  indebt 
ed  to  Captain  Barton  for  their  release.  He  informed  them 
that,  if  they  were  detained  as  prisoners,  he  would  write  to  their 
command,  stating  that  they  were  prisoners  and  had  not  deserted, 
and  he  would  have  the  letter  endorsed  by  the  General  and  sent  over 
by  flag  of  truce. 

After  their  release,  the  Captain  gave  the  men  coffee,  all  the  late 
papers,  and  a  canteen  of  whisky  each.  The  captain  and  the  lieu 
tenant  then  accompanied  them  to  the  lines,  which  they  reached 
about  8  o'clock  at  night,  some  two  hours  after  the  flag  of  truce  had 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  307 

people  then  residing  at  that  place.  They  finally  obtained  lodging 
expired.  Before  parting,  they  emptied  the  canteens  of  the  captain 
and  lieutenant,  by  drinking  each  other's  health.  The  consequence 
•was,  all  were  somewhat  "  elevated."  They  parted  the  best  of  friends, 
to  endeavor  to  kill  each  other,  if  possible,  the  next  day. 

Morning  carne.  Hurley  was  considerably  demoralized ;  Eddons 
very  sick ;  Bevin  and  McGinness  feeling  as  if  they  had  pillowed 
their  heads  upon  a  ten-inch  Coluinbiad  when  it  was  fired. 

Such  are  the  outlines  of  an  incident  which  was  a  frequent  occur 
rence  during  the  war.  The  "  rebels"  never  met  their  foes  thus  that 
they  were  not  the  recipients  of  great  kindness  and  many  polite  at 
tentions.  Yet,  after  this  interchange  of  courtesies,  they  would  fight 
each  other  as  fiercely  and  stubbornly  as  if  they  had  never  met.  The 
haps  and  mishaps  of  war  are  often  very  strange,  exciting  and  in 
teresting. 


CHAPTER    XXXIV. 

WEST   OF   THE   MISSISSIPPI. 

ON  the  morning  of  October  21,  a  small  party  of  men  appeared  on 
the  banks  of  the  Mississippi  River,  about  equidistant  from  Water 
loo,  La.,  and  Rodney,  Miss.  The  party  had  two  wagons,  heavily 
loaded,  and  a  skiff.  The  evening  previous  they  had  bivouacked 
in  the  grounds  around  Oakland  College.  This  party  consisted 
of  Captains  B.  W.  Clark  and  Fontleroy,  Majors  Springer  and 
Lasalle,  and  the  following  members  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry : 
J.  Webb,  Company  C ;  J.  R.  Nash,  Company  H ;  A.  J.  Perry,  Com 
pany  I ;  F.  D.  Tunnard  and  W.  H.  Tunnard,  Company  K.  A  heavy 
fog  hung,  like  a  cloud,  over  the  stream,  completely  shutting  out  a 
view  of  the  river.  The  boat  was  launched  with  a  celerity  and  dis 
patch  perfectly  marvelous,  baggage  and  dispatches  hastily  loaded 
into  it,  and  swiftly  rowed  across  the  river.  An  ambulance,  mules 
and  horses  were  soon  ferried  across,  and  hastily  left  the  dangerous 
vicinity.  The  blockade  was  successfully  evaded.  Major  Springer 
drove  rapidly  away  from  the  river,  leaving  behind  him  the  squad 
of  Louisianians,  with  their  heavy  knapsacks.  Behold  them  on  this 
October  day,  wearily  traveling  along  an  unknown  road,  in  close 
proximity  to  posts  of  the  enemy,  and  hiding  behind  the  embank 
ment,  to  prevent  being  discovered  by  the  enemy's  gun-boats  patrol- 
ing  the  river.  They  were  already  travel-worn  and  completely  ex 
hausted  for  want  of  rest ;  yet  many  long  miles  must  be  footed  ere 
they  reached  their  destination  (Alexandria).  Two  of  the  party 
were  quite  sick. 

The  next  day  they  passed  through  Tensas  Swamp,  along  Choctaw 
Bayou ;  crossed  the  Tensas  and  Bayou  Louie ;  also,  the  Ouachita 
River.  They  were  cordially  welcomed  and  hospitably  entertained 
by  the  residents  on  Sicily  Island.  That  night  they  reached  Harri- 
sonburg,  after  marching  twenty-six  miles,  and  were  actually -refused 
permission  to  sleep  on  the  galleries  of  the  houses  by  the  very  patriotic 


THIED   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  309 

in  the  cabin  of  a  very  poor  man,  about  three  miles  from  Harrison- 
burg.  This  hospitable  man  was  named  Daly.  The  cabin  was  a 
very  rough  structure,  with  only  a  single  room ;  yet  here  slept  the 
man  and  his  wife,  another  woman,  a  young  girl,  three  children,  and 
the  five  Louisianians. 

The  next  morning  they  bade  their  warm-hearted  host  adieu,  after 
tendering  compensation  for  their  accommodations,  which  was  re 
fused.  A  cold,  drizzling  rain  was  falling,  yet  the  road  through  the 
dreary  pine-forest  was  good,  and  the  party  traveled  twenty  miles. 
That  night  they  stopped  at  Mr.  Baker's,  and  were  kindly  treated. 

The  next  morning  was  very  cold,  yet  the  party  traveled  merrily 
along  through  the  silent  and  gloomy  pine-woods,  entertaining  each 
other  with  jokes  and  all  manner  of  witty  fusilades.  Crossed  Little 
River,  and  stopped  at  a  lady's  house  by  the  road-side,  having 
traveled  twenty-four  miles.  Learned  to-day  that  the  Third  Louisiana 
Infantry  were  ordered  to  assemble  at  Grand  Ecore,  November  10. 

The  next  day  (25th)  reached  Alexandria,  and  obtained  transpor 
tation  to  Natchitoches ;  but,  ere  continuing  on  their  journey,  they 
met  Colonel  Crow,  of  the  Twenty-sixth  Louisiana  Infantry,  who  in 
formed  them-  that  he  was  authorized  to  establish  a  parole-camp 
near  Alexandria,  and  had  already  selected  a  deserted  plantation,  a 
short  distance  above  the  town,  for  this  purpose.  During  their  short 
stay  in  the  place  they  were  hospitably  entertained  by  the  Rev.  W. 
E.  M.  Linfield  and  lady.  Mr.  Linfield  was,  at  that  time,  the  Metho 
dist  minister  at  Alexandria.  He  kindly  allowed  the  party  of 
wandering  and  homeless  Louisianians  the  use  of  his  unfinished 
study  between  the  church  and  parsonage. 

It  is  needless  to  relate  how  the  rough  boys  enjoyed  their  comfort 
able  quarters.  To  Mrs.  Linfield's  kind-heartedness  were  they  in 
debted  for  many  little  luxuries,  to  which  they  had  long  been  stran 
gers.  Everything  in  and  around  Alexandria  was  in  a  state  of  confusion. 
Families  gathered  up  their  household  goods,  and  rapidly  departed, 
in  anticipation  of  an  early  advance  of  the  enemy. 


CHAPTER    XXXV. 

ON  the  30th,  the  nucleus  for  the  future  Third  Louisiana  procured 
requisitions  for  cooking  utensils,  provisions  and  transportation.  After 
innumerable  difficulties,  they  finally  succeeded  in  procuring  two  skil 
lets,  one  without  handle  or  lid.  They  next  turned  their  attention  to 
the  transportation.  Proceeding  to  the  Government  stables,  they 
found  a  number  of  "  frames,"  once,  doubtless,  properly  called  mules. 
The  harness  was  in  pieces,  but  was  soon  tied  together  with  innumer 
able  pieces  of  string.  Asking  for  the  wagon,  they  were  pointed  to 
one  of  those  veritable  plantation  cane-carts,  which  made  its  own 
music  when  driven.  Three  mules  were  speedily  selected  and  hitched 
to  this  original  vehicle.  The  men  mounted  into  the  cart,  two  seized 
the  lines,  and  the  rest  plied  the  moving  skeletons  of  animals  with 
blows  from  heavy  rods.  Away  they  went,  in  high  glee,  through  the 
centre  of  Alexandria,  bound  for  Camp  Crow,  two  and  a  half  miles 
above  the  town.  Arriving  at  the  plantation,  they  selected  the  most 
comfortable  building  in  the  long  rows  of  negro  cabins,  and  prepared 
to  live  as  best  they  could.  The  mules  were  put  in  a  stable  near  by, 
benches  and  bunks  soon  constructed,  and  camp  formally  established. 
Such  was  Camp  Crow,  on  the  first  day  of  November. 

South  of  these  quarters  was  a  large  field  of  waving  cane,  standing 
untouched,  on  the  broad  and  cultivated  acres,  a  sad  commentary  on 
the  desolation  and  destruction  produced  by  war.  It  was  almost  a 
daily  task  for  the  party  to  go  into  this  field  with  their  cart  and  fill 
it  with  cane,  and  driving  it  back  to  their  quarters,  unload  it  into  one 
of  the  rooms.  For  the  remainder  of  the  day  they  contentedly  sat 
upon  the  gallery  and  ate  sugar-cane.  It  was  a  somewhat  strange 
spectacle,  to  see  these  Louisianians  out  in  the  cane-field,  a  small, 
solitary  band  of  reckless,  indifferent  soldiers,  cutting  cane  only  to 
gratify  their  own  fondness  for  the  nutritious  juice.  Not  in  days  gone 
by  were  such  laborers  wont  to  work  on  those  broad  acres.  Theirs 
was  a  more  sable  hue  of  complexion,  and  their  hearts  were  light  and 
gladsome,  breaking  forth  upon  the  evening  air  in  strains  of  that 
rude  yet  exquisite  melody  peculiar  to  negro  voices  and  songs,  and 
which  the  Southern  planter  loved  to  hear.  It  was  a  lazy  and  lonely 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  311 

life  which  the  men  led  on  this  place,  as  no  more  troops  reported  at 
Camp  Crow.  Their  rations  were  very  indifferent,  their  utensils  con 
sisting  of  two  skillets,  one  broken,  one  tin  cup,  two  tin  plates,  no 
knives  or  forks.  Their  situation  became  unbearable,  and  a  scout 
was  projected  in  order  to  better  their  condition.  One  dark  night 
two  of  the  party  left  the  quarters,  and  returned  about  12  M.,  bringing 
with  them  a  skillet,  broom,  bucket,  musket  and  ammunition.  They 
grew  hilarious  over  their  success,  as  usual.  To  add  to  their  priva 
tions  and  annoyances,  rats  were  innumerable,  and  flies  and  mosqui 
toes  troublesome  beyond  description. 

On  the  3d  of  November,  General  H.  W.  Allen's  orderly  was  about 
to  leave  for  Natchitoches,  with  the  General's  ambulance  horses.  He 
asked  one  of  the  Louisianians  to  accompany  him,  and  ride  the  spare 
horse.  It  was  readily  agreed  to.  Neither  saddle  nor  bridle  could  be 
procured.  The  soldier  was  not  to  be  deterred  from  the  journey  by 
such  disadvantages,  so  boldly  mounting,  bare-back,  he  started  on  his 
travels.  Ere  he  had  completed  the  journey  to  Natchitoches,  a  dis 
tance  of  some  eighty  miles,  he  was  most  thoroughly  impressed  with 
the  fact  that  a  ride  of  fifty  miles  a  day,  on  a  horse  without  saddle  or 
stirrups,  was  a  much  more  trying  ordeal  than  fighting  a  battle.  The 
remainder  of  the  party  reached  Grand  Ecore  some  time  near  the 
middle  of  November,  and  found  very  comfortable  and  pleasant 
quarters.  The  residence  of  Colonel  Russell  was  in  this  place,  and 
the  men  were  the  recipients  of  innumerable  kindnesses  from  the 
Colonel  and  his  estimable  lady. 

On  the  17th  there  was  an  informal  meeting  of  the  regiment  at 
Grand  Ecore.  Quite  a  number  reported,  of  whom  a  list  was  taken, 
and  the  men  were  permitted  to  return  home,  with  instructions  to 
report  every  two  weeks. 

The  squad  who  had  been  in  camp  at  Alexandria  still  formed  a  nucleus 
for  the  regiment,  being  without  any  homes  or  friends.  Soon,  however, 
two  of  the  party,  F.  D.  Tunnard  and  brother,  discovered  friends,  and 
eventually  found  a  home,  Mrs.  L.  L.  McLauren's.  This  lady's  residence 
was  on  the  banks  of  Red  River,  four  miles  east  of  Natchitoches,  on  an 
island  known  as  Tiger  Island  ;  Red  River,  during  its  high  stages  of 
water,  completely  surrounding  it,  flowing  through  what  was  formerly 
the  channel  of  the  river,  and  known  as  Old  River.  L.  L.  McLauren 
was  Colonel  of  the  Twenty-seventh  Louisiana  Infantry,  and  fell  at  the 
memorable  siege  of  Vicksburg.  A  man  of  undaunted  bravery,  and 
a  gallant  officer,  he  was  idolized  by  his  men,  a  fit  leader  for  that 
noble  and  heroic  organization.  Mrs.  McLauren's  residence  was  a 
general  rendezvous  for  numbers  of  the  paroled  soldiers.  They  always 


312  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

found  a  cordial  welcome.  She  was  generous  to  a  fault,  a  lady  of 
unswerving  devotion  to  the  Southern  cause,  unusually  fond  of  having 
young  people  about  her,  and  making  them  feel  perfectly  at  home 
and  enjoy  themselves  to  the  full  bent  of  their  inclinations.  Conse 
quently,  her  house  was  constantly  thronged  with  gay  soldier  lads 
and  beautiful,  lively,  entertaining  lassies,  the  fairest  flowers  among 
Louisiana's  lovely  exotics.  A  short  residence  in  this  mansion  entirely 
obliterated  all  formality,  and  Mrs.  McL.  was  known  by  no  other 
name  than  "  Auntie."  "  Auntie  "  became  endeared  to  many  a  manly 
heart  by  those  associations  which  are  an  indestructible  part  of  the 
human  soul,  and  lives  yet  fresh  and  green  in  numbers  of  strong 
hearts  and  brave  spirits.  Every  expedient  known  to  social  gather 
ings  was  here  resorted  to  in  order  to  make  the  time  pass  pleasantly, 
and  such  scenes  of  hilarity  as  here  occurred,  crowded  one  upon 
the  other  in  rapid  succession,  are  seldom  witnessed  and  experienced. 
Hunting,  fishing  expeditions  into  the  woods,  quilting  parties,  cards, 
practical  jokes  of  every  description,  music  and  romps  were  some  of 
the  amusements  indulged  in.  Such  was  Tiger  Island  during  the 
fall  and  winter  of  1863,  and  such  the  home  the  wandering  Louisi- 
anians  found.  Truly  their  "lines  had  fallen  in  pleasant  places." 
Those  were  halcyon  days,  whose  memory  is  ineradicable.  Freed 
from  the  conventionalities  which  clog  society  in  social  circles,  the 
time  sped  away,  bringing  on  its  golden  pinions  joy,  fun  and  life  in 
its  brightest  colors. 

On  the  first  of  December  there  was  another  gathering  of  the  Third 
Regiment  at  Grand  Ecore,  about  twenty-five  being  present,  mostly 
members  of  Companies  D  and  G,  and  another  adjournment  for  a 
week.  Many  pleasant  days  were  spent  at  Dr.  Butler's,  the  father  of 
•Captain  W.  B.  Butler,  of  Company  G.  The  people  on  Red  River 
never  flagged  in  their  eiforts  to  make  the  paroled  prisoners  happy 
and  contented.  There  was  quite  a  party  of  the  Third  at  Dr.  Butler's 
on  the  occasion  of  Captain  Butler's  birth-day,  December  6th,  among 
whom  were  Lieutenant-Colonel  Pierson,  Lieutenant  Emanuel,  Com 
pany  C  ;  Captain  Haley,  Twenty-seventh  Louisiana,  and  several  unob 
trusive  privates.  That  was  more  than  a  square  meal.  "Turkey, 
fresh  pork,  sausage,  turnips,  lettuce,  salad,  chicken  salad,  peas,  hom 
iny,  roast  eggs,  sauces,  bread,  butter,  milk,  pies,  preserves,  pound 
cake,  egg-nog,  claret,  champagne  cider,  etc.,  formed  a  regal  feast 
for  those  terrible  war  times." 

Thus  day  by  day  slipped  away  into  the  irrevocable  past  days 
epent  in  the  quiet  social  circle ;  trips  into  the  country  in  pursuit  of 
pleasure,  or  to  the  camp  at  Grand  Ecore ;  days  of  cold  and  sleet, 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  313 

then  mild  and  balmy,  alternate  succession  of  clouds  and  sunshine. 
December  llth  was  such  an  one.  Early  the  rain  fell  rapidly,  then 
there  was  a  lull  in  the  storm.  The  sun  shone  bright  and  golden 
through  the  rifted  clouds,  whose  dark  and  jagged  edges  looked 
threatening  and  strong.  How  emblematical  of  a  soldier's  varied 
existence !  Life  with  him  then  was  but  a  storm-cloud,  through 
whose  gathered  gloom,  occasionally  shone  the  sun  of  hope  and  hap 
piness.  To  some  it  was  almost  a  nonentity,  creatures  of  circum 
stances  ;  at  times  it  was  a  quiet  calm  full  of  remembrances  of  the 
Past,  uninfluenced  by  the  Present,  looking  not  for  aught  from  the 
Future.  Again  it  was  a  storm,  upon  whose  surging  billows  he  tossed 
amid  a  sea  of  excitement.  Then  the  glimmer  of  some  uncertain 
hope  would  shine  mellow  and  golden  upon  his  heart,  making,  with 
its  uncertain  light,  dancing  pictures  of  future  joy  and  happiness. 

On  the  15th,  General  H.  W.  Allen  addressed  the  people  of  Natchi- 
toches  in  one  of  those  noble,  stirring  appeals,  so  characteristic  of 
the  man.  The  building  was  crowded  to  its  utmost  capacity  to  lis 
ten  to  the  idolized  and  revered  chieftain  and  statesman.  Perhaps, 
no  man  has  ever  been  so  deeply  enshrined  in  the  hearts  of  Louisiani- 
ans  as  is  Governor  Allen  ;  the  true  and  tried  soldier,  the  uncompro 
mising  patriot ;  the  kind  and  affable  Governor ;  the  soldier's  and 
widow's  friend.  His  memory  will  be  kept  bright  and  green  in 
thousands  of  warm  and  loving  hearts  long  after  the  war  and  its  inci 
dents  have  been  forgotten,  or  only  recalled  as  some  strange  dream  of 
the  past. 

On  the  16th  of  December  an  order  was  issued  for  the  regiment  to 
assemble  permanently  in  camp  at  Grand  Ecore  on  the  5th  of  Janu 
ary,  1864. 

The  holidays  passed  away  without  incident  worthy  of  note.  In 
camp,  the  boys  had  a  merry  time  quaffing  rich  and  royal  egg-nog, 
and  partaking  of  a  regal  repast,  the  munificent  gift  of  Mrs.  ^Colonel 
S.  D.  Russell.  On  Tiger  Island  were  assembled  a  large  party  of 
lively  spirits  at  the  hospitable  mansion  of  Mrs.  McLauren.  The  as 
sembly  consisted  of  Widows  E.  Sleade  and  Cole,  Misses  Frank  Penny, 
Allie  Tucker,  M.  J.  Barlow,  Captain  F.  Avery,  aid-de-camp  to  Gen 
eral  Hays,  Sergeant-Major  O.  Penny,  J.  Macey,  Lieutenant  Dunker- 
mann,  27th  Louisiana,  and  the  two  members  of  the  Third  Louisiana. 
There  were  card  parties,  mock  marriages,  attended  with  a  regular 
chevarri  from  all  the  children  on  the  plantation,  both  white  and 
black.  The  scenes  were  rich  and  racy  indeed,  and  attended  with 
uproarious  mirth. 

The  year  of  '63  went  out  amid  a  blustering  storm.  The  wind 
14 


314  A.  SOUTHERN  EECOED. 

blew  almost  a  hurricane,  shrieking  forth  a  wrathful  requiem  over  the 
dying  year,  while  snow-flakes,  descending  thick  and  fast,  filled  all 
the  wintry,  biting  air.  The  gloom  was  indicative  of  the  dark  storm- 
cloud  of  war,  that  hung  like  a  funeral-pall  over  the  land,  bringing 
sorrow  and  woe  to  thousands  of  once  happy  households.  The  mind 
involuntarily  winged  a  thought  towards  the  coming  year,  and  sadly 
questioned,  "Will  1864  still  find  the  land  the  scene  of  bloodshed 
and  fierce  strife  ? "  It  trusted  not,  and  looked  forward  to  the  day- 
spring  of  a  brighter  hope.  The  Confederate  soldiers,  the  patriot 
sons  of  the  South,  were  thought  of  amid  their  terrible  sufferings  in 
Tennessee  and  Virginia,  as  they  nobly  endeavored  to  roll  back  the 
swift  tide  of  invasion. 


CHAPTEK    XXXVI. 

THE  new  year  opened  bitter  cold,  the  mercury  in  the  thermometer 
indicating  six  degrees  above  zero  at  six  o'clock  A.  M.  It  froze  all 
day. 

On  the  5th  of  January,  the  two  Louisianians,  after  a  warm  parting 
with  their  hospitable  friends,  were  once  more  on  the  road  with  their 
knapsacks  strapped  to  their  shoulders,  en  route  for  Grand  Ecore  and 
the  rough  experiences  of  camp  life.  As  they  jonrneycd  on,  they 
were  overtaken  by  a  carriage  containing  two  ladies  and  acquaint 
ances,  who  insisted  on  their  riding.  Of  course  no  objection  was 
made  to  such  a  proposition.  Arriving  at  the  landing  opposite  Grand 
Ecore,  the  soldiers  parted  from  their  kind-hearted  Mends,  after 
pressing  warm  kisses  upon  their  soft,  rosy  lips.  As  one  of  the  men 
turned  his  back  upon  the  carriage,  a  sweet-toned  voice  called  to  him, 
u  Will,  come  back,  I  want  to  tell  you  something."  Approaching  the 
carriage,  a  lovely  face  bent  close  down  to  the  lowered  window  of 
the  door,  a  pair  of  fascinating  blue  eyes  gazed  into  his  own  as  he  in 
quired,  "  Well,  what  is  it  ? "  He  was  under  a  mystic  spell,  as  that 
same  musical  voice  uttered  in  low  tones,  "  Oh  !  nothing,  only  I  want 
to  kiss  you  again."  There  was  a  long,  lingering  pressure  of  lips  upon 

each  other,  and  then the  carriage  disappeared  around  abend  in 

the  road ;  and  the  soldier  trod  light-hearted  over  the  sands  on  the 
river's  shore. 

About  thirty  men  assembled  on  the  5th,  and  proceeded  at  once  to 
establish  themselves  in  the  comfortable  quarters.  The  weather  was 
very  cold,  and  the  men  poorly  supplied  with  blankets,  yet  they  were 
in  high  spirits.  It  seemed  as  if  no  change  of  circumstances  could 
ever  break  the  brave  spirits  of  the  members  of  the  regiment,  who 
easily  and  quietly  adapted  themselves  to  every  phase  of  a  soldier's 
life.  On  the  Gth,  Company  C  arrived.  W.  H.  Tunnard  was  appointed 
and  acted  as  Commissary  and  Quartermaster.  "Wagons  and  rations 
were  procured  in  Natchi  todies,  and  Grand  Ecore  became  a  regularly 


316  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

established  camp.  The  days  slipped  away  with  little  worthy  of 
note.  The  weather  was  usually  stormy,  and  the  road  to  Natchi- 
toches  terribly  muddy,  almost  impassable ;  making  the  dally  trip  of 
five  miles  and  back  anything  but  agreeable. 

On  the  19th  of  January  there  was  a  dress  parade  of  the  regi 
ment  ;  about  seventy-five  men  present.  Orders  were  issued  strictly 
prohibiting  the  men  from  leaving  camp  more  than  half  a  mile, 
without  a  written  permit.  The  days  of  January  passed  away  pleas 
antly  with  mild,  balmy  spring  weather.  The  men  enjoyed  them 
selves  as  best  they  could,  and  were  continually  engaged  in  mis 
chief  of  some  kind.  On  the  6th  of  February,  a  large  party  properly 
mounted,  went  to  Winn  Parish,  a  distance  of  fifteen  miles,  to  a  frolic. 
It  consisted  of  Adjutant  Currie,  Lieutenants  Clark,  Company  F,  and 
Meredith,  Company  I,  Sergeants  Derbonne  and  J.  Norris,  Company 
G,  the  Commissary  Sergeant  and  J.  Sompeyrac,  27th  Louisiana. 
Arriving  at  the  appointed  place,  they  found  a  large  number  of  beau 
tiful  girls  present.  The  dancing  commenced  as  the  sun  was  dipping 
'neath  the  western  horizon,  continuing  without  intermission  until 
six  A.  M.  the  next  morning,  when  the  last  sett  left  the  floor.  Dur 
ing  the  night  the  house  was  surrounded  by  cavalry,  who  stationed 
armed  men  at  every  outlet.  The  Captain  came  to  the  doorway  and 
demanded  the  papers  from  the  men.  Kot  one  among  the  party  had 
any.  Lieutenants  Clark  and  Currie  said  they  could  vouch  for  the 
men,  who  belonged  to  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry,  and  had  only 
left  camp  for  the  purpose  of  enjoying  the  frolic.  He  was  not  satis 
fied.  Some  warm  words  ensued,  when  the  Captain  was  informed 

that  the  boys  "would  see  him  and  his  buttermilk  cavalry  d d 

before  they  would  have  their  fun  interrupted."  Arms  were  drawn  ; 
the  old  fighting  spirit  of  the  Third  Regiment  was  aroused,  and  af 
fairs  began  to  look  serious.  The  ladies  screamed,  or  sat  in  pale 
groups  around  the  room.  After  some  cool  reasoning  the  matter  was 
finally  adjusted  by  the  men  being  formed  in  line  and  duly  in 
spected  by  the  Captain,  who  remarked,  as  he  finished  his  task,  "  I 
have  been  looking  for  a  deserter,  and  expected  to  find  him  here ;  I 
do  not  wish  to  interfere  with  your  amusement.  Good-evening,  gen 
tlemen  ;"  bowing  himself  out  of  the  room.  For  once  in  his  life,  he 
had  found  men  who  were  neither  afraid  of  leveled  rifles,  nor  to  be 
intimidated  by  a  game  of  "  bluff." 

On  the  8th,  Major  Lasalle,  Department  Paymaster,  visited  Grand 
Ecore,  and  paid  oif  all  men  to  whom  the  Government  was  indebted, 
up  to  September,  1863.  Now  ensued  the  usual  scenes  of  gambling, 
to  which  the  soldiers  were  so  much  addicted.  On  the  14th,  all  the 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  317 

men  in  camp  were  furloughed  for  fifteen  days,  to  be  renewed  every 
two  weeks  until  they  were  exchanged.  The  boys  were  in  high 
spirits  over  this  good  luck,  while  the  officers  were  furious  with  anger, 
declaring  that  the  whole  proceeding  was  a  scheme,  concocted  to  de 
stroy  the  organization  of  the  regiment. 

On  the  15th  of  February,  Grand  Ecore  was  lonely  and  deserted, 
and  parole  camp  a  myth,  the  soldiers  having  eagerly  and  rapidly 
left  for  their  homes.  Thus,  with  the  furloughing  of  the  men,  the 
bright  star  of  reorganization  that  had  risen  and  shone  so  brilliantly 
upon  the  gathering  members  of  the  regiment,  went  out  once  again 
in  the  gloom  of  the  uncertain  future.  Growing  restless  under  their 
protracted  inactivity,  numbers  joined  scouting  parties  in  the  Missis 
sippi  Valley,  others  formed  bands  and  hovered  within  and  around 
General  Banks'  army.  Many  remained  quietly  at  home  enjoying  the 
society  of  friends,  while  still  others,  who  were  homeless  wanderers, 
aided  the  planters  in  saving  their  stock,  household  goods  and  negroes 
from  the  approaching  desolation  of  war.  Thus,  for  a  period  of  five 
months,  the  curtain  of  oblivion  conceals  the  regiment. 


CHAPTER    XXXVII. 

CAMP  NEAK  PINEVrLLE. 

JULY  4th,  1864,  the  curtain  rises  upon  a  new  scene  in  the  drama  of 
war.  A  year  has  elapsed  since  the  fall  of  Vicksburg.  The  fierce 
and  protracted  struggle  around  the  stronghold,  ending  at  last  in 
disaster,  had  spread  a  gloom  over  the  whole  South.  The  brave  and 
patriotic  Confederates  who  had  struggled  so  tenaciously,  so  fiercely 
for  its  preservation,  who  endured  the  tortures  of  hunger,  the  con 
stant  fatigue,  unrelieved  in  the  trenches,  the  burning  summer  sun 
during  the  day,  the  heavy,  penetrating  dews  at  night,  the  drenching 
storms,  standing  undismayed,  unbroken  in  spirit  amid  the  storm  of 
bullets,  hurtling  shot  and  hissing  shells,  exhibited  a  spirit  similar  to 
that  which  animated  the  Spartans  at  ThermopylaB.  Going  forth  on 
parole  after  the  fall  of  their  stronghold,  they  had  scattered  to  their 
homes  and  friends,  over  the  length  and  breadth  of  the  Confederacy. 
At  this  period,  numbers  had  already  been  exchanged  and  were  once 
again  confronting  the  foe,  exhibiting  their  devotion  to  their  country 
by  deeds  of  heroic  valor  amid  the  thunder  roar  of  battle.  The 
majority  of  the  Louisianians  captured  at  Vicksburg  were  still,  how 
ever,  up  to  this  period,  unexchanged.  They  comprised  the  following 
regiments :  Third  Detachment  of  Twelfth,  Seventeenth,  Twenty-sixth, 
Twenty-seventh,  Twenty-eighth,  Thirty-first,  and  a  portion  of  Miles's 
Legion,  forming  a  brigade,  under  the  command  of  Brigadier-Gen 
eral  Allen  Thomas,  formerly  Colonel  of  the  Twenty-eighth  Regiment. 
Under  the  pressure  of  stringent  orders  then  promulgated,  the  men 
rapidly  assembled  in  camp  near  Pineville,  preparatory  to  being  ex 
changed,  thoroughly  organized,  equipped,  and  put  once  more  into 
active  service.  The  morale  of  the  troops  of  this  brigade  was  such 
that  it  was  anticipated  on  future  battle-fields  they  would  obtain  a 
glory  blight  and  untarnished,  a  fame  wide-spread  and  imperishable, 
adding  new  laurel-wreaths  of  patriotism,  devotion,  and  valor  to  the 
chaplets  already  encircling  the  brow  of  Louisiana. 

The  summer  days,  hot,  hotter,  hottest,  fleeted  rapidly  away,  while 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  319 

the  men  employed  the  time  as  best  they  could,  lying  'neath  the 
shadows  of  the  pines,  indulging  in  speculative  fancies,  yet  interested 
spectators  of  the  fierce  struggle  for  supremacy  between  the  contend 
ing  hosts.  Notwithstanding  their  bitter  experiences,  they  desired  to 
plunge  once  again  into  the  whirling  vortex  of  strife,  and  aid  their 
patriot  brethren  in  their  struggles  for  homes,  country  and  freedom. 
Not  an  event  of  interest  occurred  to  vary  the  monotony  of  their  idle 
existence.  Exchange  was  the  theme  of  speculation,  the  chief  topic 
of  conversation,  yet,  like  a  "  Jack-o'-lantern,"  was  an  unapproachable, 
uncertain  reality,  a  doubtful  question  of  the  still  more  doubtful 
future.  Thus  unchanged,  the  days  passed  away,  while  the  solemn 
pines,  in  whispering  voices  like  the  far-off  murmuring  of  the  ocean 
waves  on  a  sanded  shore,  hymned  the  requiem  of  their  passing 
hopes  and  lost  opportunities.  It  was  not  always  thus,  however.  The 
gentle  summer  air  would  swell  into  thunder-toned  voices,  borne  from 
the  mountains  and  valleys  from  Virginia  and  Georgia,  mingled  with 
triumphant  shouts  of  victory.  Aye,  victory,  radiant,  triumphant, 
would  poise  like  the*  incarnation  of  beauty  upon  the  Southern  ban 
ner,  a  point  to  the  obscurity  which  shrouded  the  future  as  if  it  con 
tained  the  germs  of  white-winged  peace  and  final  success.  The 
rainbow  of  Hope,  with  every  tint  of  its  exquisite  coloring,  would 
stand  out  in  bold  relief  against  the  dark  war-cloud  that  hung  over 
the  land,  and  was  fast  sinking  into  the  horizon  of  the  past ;  its  dark 
setting  rendering  all  the  more  beautiful  the  soft  hues.  It  seemed 
then  as  if  the  sun  of  peace  was  tinging  with  its  parting  beams,  the 
jagged  edges  of  the  storm-cloud  as  with  a  silver  lining.  Thus  it 
seemed  as  if  the  Southern  hosts  were  striding  forward  to\vards  the 
goal  of  their  hopes,  the  prize  for  which  they  contended  so  stubborn 
ly,  and  gave  so  freely  the  priceless  treasure  of  their  rich,  red  blood. 

Thus,  while  the  men  indulged  in  their  speculations,  they  were 
actually  suffering  both  for  want  of  provisions  and  shelter.  The 
rations  consisted  chiefly  of  corn-meal  and  beef,  and  not  in  large 
quantities.  They  were  without  tents,  and  usually  slept  on  rough 
beds  built  in  the  open  air,  protected  from  the  night-dews  only  by 
shelters  of  brush.  They  generally  congregated  around  some  rough 
log-cabins  in  the  woods,  whose  shelter  they  sought  in  rainy  weather, 
but  found  the  flees  more  intolerable  than  a  good  drenching. 

On  the  23d  of  July  the  following  order  was  read  to  the  troops  : 

General  Orders )  HEADQUARTERS  TRANS-MTSS.  DEFT.  ) 

No.  56.        i  8hreveport,  La.,  July  21,  1864.       J 

All  officers  and  men  captured  at  Vicksburg,  who  have  reported  at 


320  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Enterprise,  Demopolis,  Vienna,  Natchitoches,  Shreveport  and  Alex 
andria,  at  any  time  prior  to  April  1st,  1864,  have  been  declared  ex 
changed  by  the  Commission  er  of  Exchange. 

All  those  in  this  Department  who  arc  embraced  in  this  list  will 
immediately  rejoin  their  commands  in  the  field. 

By  command  of 

GEN.  E.  KIEBY  SMITH. 
S.  S.  ANDERSON,  A.  A.  G. 

Such  was  the  order  which  finally  proclaimed  the  exchange  of  the 
Vicksburg  prisoners.  This  notice  of  exchange  was  read  to  the 
troops  on  the  23d  day  of  July.  Once  more  they  belonged  to  the 
Confederate  army,  to  become  active  participators  in  its  future  fields 
of  operations.  This  notice  of  exchange  created  much  excitement  in 
camp.  The  reality  of  the  situation  was,  however,  acknowledged 
and  realized  by  the  men  being  once  more  put  into  active  service. 
The  Third  Regiment  was  rapidly  approaching  a  complete  organiza 
tion.  Its  existence  as  a  regiment  was  acknowledged  by  the  War 
Department,  commissioning  Lieutenant-Colonel  Russell  as  Colonel, 
Major  Pierson  as  Lieutenant-Colonel,  and  Captain  J.  S.  Richards,  of 
Company  H,  as  Major. 

Thus,  notwithstanding  Company  H,  of  the  22d,  claimed  to  be  the 
only  true  representatives  of  this  organization,  reporting  the  majority 
of  the  members  thereof  as  absent  without  leave,  it  here  exhibited  a 
wonderful  vitality,  and  stood  in  the  brigade  of  gallant  Louisianians 
as  one  of  its  most  gallant  regiments.  At  this  time,  Companies  B, 
C,  D,  E,  F,  G,  H,  I  and  K,  had  representatives  in  the  camp.  The 
period  had  now  arrived  when  absentees  must  report  to  their  several 
commands.  Stringent  orders  and  measures  were  promulgated 
and  adopted  to  compel  their  attendance.  As  patriot  sons  of  Louisi 
ana,  as  true  soldiers  desiring  once  more  to  confront  the  foe  side  by 
side  with  the  comrades  with  whom  they  had  fought  upon  many 
hard-contested  and  bloody  battle-fields  the  majority  of  the  absentees 
came  willingly  and  voluntarily  into  the  camp  near  Pineville. 

More  than  a  year  of  inactivity  !  a  year  surrounded  by  the  comforts 
and  blessings  of  home  in  the  companionship  of  its  dear  and  loved 
ones  !  The  memory  of  this  year  nerved  anew  each  strong  arm  and 
stout  heart,  especially  when  such  marks  of  wars  desolation  as  Red 
River  Valley,  Alexandria,  Compte,  Grand  Ecore,  and  other  places  ex 
hibited,  proclaimed  the  vindictive  barbarity  and  fiendish  malig 
nity  of  a  foe,  rivaling  in  cruelty  the  ancient  Goths  and  Vandals  of 
Europe. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  321 

Unusual  activity  and  energy,  displayed  in  every  department,  pro 
claimed  a  determination  to  organize,  arm  and  equip  the  brigade  as 
speedily  as  possible.  The  name  and  fame  of  these  Louisianians,  as  be 
ing  among  the  most  heroic  defenders  of  Vicksburg,  gave  great  hopes 
that  they  would  soon  win  more  brilliant  and  imperishable  laurels 
upon  future  battle-fields. 

About  this  period  two  members  of  the  27th  Louisiana  were  shot 
for  desertion.  This  necessity  for  taking  human  life  to  compel  obe 
dience  to  orders  was  sadly  deplored  by  all.  Yet  such  a  necessity 
often  existed  during  the  war.  The  first  duty  of  every  soldier  is 
obedience  to  orders.  If  right,  it  is  just ;  if  wrong,  the  blame  rests 
where  it  properly  belongs — with  those  promulgating  them.  This  in 
stance  is  mentioned  to  exhibit  the  determination  of  those  in  author 
ity  to  compel  obedience  to  orders,  which  was  but  right,  if  calmly 
and  dispassionately  considered. 

On  Sunday,  the  24th  instant,  1,100  troops  belonging  to  the  depart 
ment  arrived  from  New  Orleans,  in  exchange  for  Federal  prisoners 
recently  sent  below.  They  arrived  filled  with  admiration  and  en 
thusiasm,  for  the  ladies  of  the  Crescent  City,  unconquerable  in  spirit, 
enthusiastic  worshipers  at  the  shrine  of  the  Confederate  cause,  un 
dismayed  by  the  presence  of  implacable  foes — these  fair  patriots,  with 
untiring  zeal  and  energy,  ministered  to  the  wants  and  necessities  of 
every  Confederate  soldier  who  reached  New  Orleans  during  the  war. 
Fame  can  wreath  no  brighter  chaplet ;  history  contains  no  fairer 
page ;  memory  retain  no  more  beautiful  impression  than  was  furnish 
ed  by  the  devotion  and  patriotism  of  Southern  women  during  the 
recent  fierce,  internecine  struggle.  To  them  should  be  reared  a 
monument  more  durable  than  brass,  more  pure  and  polished  than 
the  finest  Parian  marble.  They  will  live  ever  unforgotten  in  the 
hearts  of  the  South's  brave  sons. 

On  the  last  day  of  July  General  Polignac's  Division  arrived  and 
encamped  a  short  distance  from  the  regiment,  but  the  next  morn 
ing  were  gone.  These  troops  were  like  the  shadow  of  some  fleecy 
summer  cloud,  lingering  but  an  instant,  to  flit  by  and  then  disappear. 
At  this  period  there  was  an  unprecedented  lull  in  the  storm  of  war. 
The  paroled,  or  rather  exchanged  prisoners,  arrived  rapidly  in  camp, 
and  the  brigade  was  growing  in  numbers.  At  this  time,  many  of 
the  men  were  nearly  entirely  destitute  of  clothing,  going  in  rags,  and 
barefooted.  There  were  some  such  cases  in  the  Third  Regiment. 
This  state  of  affairs  was  unavoidable.  Many  men  in  the  regiment 
were  long  miles  from  their  homes,  perhaps  in  the  hands  of  the  ene 
my,  and  were  dependent  on  the  charities  4>f  friends  both  for  clothing 
14* 


322  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

and  food.  The  ladies,  however,  were  ever  foremost  in  supplying  the 
wants  of  the  destitute  and  suffering,  and  many  a  noble  soldier  treas 
ured,  and  still  retains  in  his  patriot  heart,  memories  ineffaceable  of 
the  daughters  of  the  Sunny  South.  Words  were  but  feeble  instru 
ments  to  express  all  the  debt  of  gratitude,  manly  affection  and  ad 
miration  felt  by  the  Southern  soldier  for  the  fair  ladies.  In  history 
is  now  transcribed,  inscribed  on  every  page  in  bright  and  glowing 
characters,  their  deeds  of  devotion,  patriotism,  suffering,  heroic  en 
durance  and  daring. 

On  the  8th  of  August,  Captains  Gallagher  and  Brusle  arrived  in 
camp,  and  were  most  cordially  greeted  by  the  men.  Captain  Gal 
lagher  had  always  been  a  favorite  with  the  regiment,  being  considered 
the  best  Commissary  who  had  ever  catered  to  the  ravenous  appetites 
of  soldiers.  Most  assuredly,  Captain  Gallagher  took  advantage  of 
every  favorable  opportunity  for  supplying  the  men  with,  not  only 
everything  eatable  which  the  Commissary  Department  furnished, 
but  also  many  articles  not  properly  belonging  to  a  soldier's  rations. 
He  never  took  advantage  of  his  position  to  appropriate  any  luxuries 
or  delicacies  that  happened  to  fall  into  his  hands,  but  divided  them 
with  an  honesty  and  exactness  among  the  men,  which  was  known 
and  highly  appreciated  by  the  recipients  of  his  favors.  The  same 
statement  could  not  be  made  concerning  the  majority  of  the  Commis 
saries  in  the  anny.  The  peculiar  side-poise  of  Captain  Gallagher's 
head  on  his  shoulders,  and  the  twinkle  of  his  eyes,  his  abrupt  man 
ner,  and,  when  excited,  stammering  method  of  speech,  gave  rise  to 
innumerable  jokes  and  witticisms  at  his  expense.  Brave,  fearless, 
always  present  during  times  of  danger,  Captain  Gallagher  discharged 
his  duties  most  faithfully,  and  was  universally  esteemed  by  the  or 
ganization  with  which  he  was  connected. 


CHAPTER   XXXVIII. 

HO  !    FOR   SHREVEPORT. 

ON  Tuesday  evening,  the  9th  instant,  orders  were  received  in  camp, 
near  Alexandria,  for  a  portion  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry  to  be 
prepared  to  move  early  the  next  morning  for  Shreveport,  to  relievo 
the  Crescent  Regiment,  then  doing  post  duty  at  that  place.  After 
numerous  delays  incident  to  the  leisurely  embarkation  of  troops,  at 
noon  on  the  10th  instant  the  first  detachment  of  the  regiment,  num 
bering  110  officers  and  men,  exclusive  of  18  Yankee  prisoners,  were 
snugly  packed  on  board  the  small  steamer  "Lelia,"  bound  for  anew 
destination.  Reader,  have  you  ever  traveled  up  Red  River  on  board 
one  of  these  "  kick-up-behind  "  crafts  in  low  water  ?  If  not,  you 
have  missed  one  of  the  pleasures  of  navigation.  Just  imagine  one 
of  these  small  boats,  indiscriminately  crowded  with  horses,  mules, 
negroes,  soldiers,  officers,  white  men,  gentlemen  at  large,  baggage 
and  wagons,  and  you  may  form  some  conception  of  the  freight  on 
board  the  "  Lclia." 

During  the  passage  storms  daily  arose;  and  if  the  boat  had  been 
built  of  sieves,  it  could  not  have  leaked  worse.  However,  a  duck 
ing  is  one  of  the  least  of  soldiers'  mishaps.  On  the  12th  instant  the 
boat  arrived  at  Grand  Ecore,  amid  lowering  clouds  and  driving  rain. 
Yet  here  numbers  of  ladies  from  Natchitoches  and  the  surrounding 
country,  assembled  to  welcome  the  regiment.  Mysterious  bundles, 
containing  clothes  and  comforts  for  the  outer  and  inner  man,  found 
their  way  aboard  the  boat.  Vociferous  cheers  attested  the  heartfelt 
farewell  of  the  boys  as  the  steamer  departed,  while  amid  general 
hilarity  and  good-humor,  the  "  good  things"  were  opened  and  freely 
partaken  of.  What  mattered  it  that  the  boat  ran  "  kerchug"  against 
a  sand-bank  !  It  only  brought  forth  a  full  chorus  of  cheers. 

A  member  of  the  regiment  was  sitting  on  a  barrel-head,  with  a 
sympathizing  companion  by  his  side,  conversing  in  low  tones.  They 
were  hundreds  of  miles  from  friends  and  relatives,  and  the  scenes 
which  they  witnessed  at  Grand  Ecore  and  on  the  boat,  after  its  de- 


324  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

parture,  made  them  feel  lonely  and  homesick.  They  bewailed  the 
fate  which  separated  them  from  homes  far  away,  as  they  glanced  at 
the  happy  groups  scattered  about  the  deck  discussing  the  contents 
of  numerous  freshly  received  packages.  Suddenly  a  voice  broke  in 
upon  the  conversation,  exclaiming,  "  Come,  boys,  and  eat  some  cakes." 
Forgotten  was  home;  finished  all  reverie,  and  conversation  laid 
aside — memory  of  friends.  Shades  of  corn-meal,  defend  us !  Calces  ! 
Simon-pure  flour  calces  !  !  They  quickly  descended  from  the  eleva 
tion  of  their  observatory,  and  were  soon  discussing  the  excellences 
of  some  fair  lady's  culinary  skill.  Thanks  to  the  generous  kindness 
of  Prue  Hyams,  the  homeless  were  not  forgotten. 

Nothing  occurred  of  special  interest  on  the  way  up,  until  arriving 
at  Colonel  S.  M.  Hyams's  plantation,  Lac  des  Mures.  Here  the  boat 
stopped  to  land  a  passenger.  Imagine  the  general  surprise  when 
Captain  Isaacson,  the  kind,  obliging  and  gentlemanly  commander 
of  the  boat,  was  invited  on  shore,  and  no  sooner  arrived  at  the  Col 
onel's  residence  than  he  was  forcibly  seized  and  detained  by  the 
Colonel  in  the  following  manner :  The  Colonel  appealed  to  the  men, 
his  old  command,  to  sustain  his  authority,  while  he  proclaimed  a 
feast  in  preparation  for  the  whole  regiment.  Of  course,  he  was  up 
held  in  his  summary  proceeding.  The  Captain  was  indiscriminately 
stuffed  with  a  bushel  of  peaches,  washed  down  with  some  excellent 
u  fire-water"  from  a  Confederate  distillery ;  then  followed  a  cart 
load  of  melons,  grapes  ad  infinitum,  rnilk,  fine  gumbo,  barbecued 
pork,  beef,  mutton,  etc. — the  men  being  likewise  provided  for. 
They  bowed  most  gracefully  to  the  exacting  demands  of  the  Colonel, 
and  a  scene  of  hilarity,  joy  and  freedom  from  restraint  ensued 
such  as  was  seldom  witnessed  during  the  late  warlike  times. 

Lieutenant-Colonel  S.  M.  Hyams  was  formerly  an  officer  of  the 
Third  Louisiana  Infantry,  disabled  by  disease  from  following  and 
participating  in  the  fortunes  of  his  old  command.  Yet  he  remem 
bered  his  former  companions-in-arms  with  not  less  warmth  and 
generous  hospitality  than  they  cherished  for  one  of  their  first  field- 
officers,  and  appreciated  this  token  of  his  kindness  and  remem 
brance.  His  welcome  to  them  was  as  the  oasis  in  the  desert  to  the 
fainting  traveler — a  golden  sunbeam  descending  from  a  rift  in  dark 
storm-clouds.  Veteran  troops  of  the  Confederacy,  the  regiment 
never  experienced  a  more  genial  welcome,  a  more  hospitable  recep 
tion,  than  that  given  them  by  Lieutenant-Colonel  S.  M.  Hyams,  his 
estimable  lady,  fair  daughter,  and  near  relatives,  on  the  13th  day  of 
August,  1864.  Sufferer  from  the  inroads  of  a  Vandal  foe,  he  appre 
ciated  the  protecting  power  of  the  troops,  and  out  of  the  abund- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  325 

ance  of  his  generous  impulses  welcomed  them,  and  bade  them  God 
speed  on  their  way,  feeling  thrice  blessed  by  his  kindness.  With 
many  regrets,  the  men  bade  adieu  to  their  kind-hearted  host  and 
hostess,  making  the  shores  and  woods  re-echo  to  their  vociferous 
cheers,  as  the  boat  proceeded  up  the  river.  Nightly  the  men  dis 
embarked.  With  bundles  of  blankets  thrown  over  their  shoulders, 
they  would  frantically  rush  from  the  boat,  over  a  single  plank,  as  if 
spirits  loosed  from  Pandemonium,  and  seeking  the  contiguity  of 
some  sheltering  bush,  tree,  or  shade,  build  fires,  and  soon,  amid 
oblivious  slumber,  forget  all  life's  cares,  harrowing  thoughts,  etc., 
red  bugs,  ticks  and  mosquitoes  permitting.  Thus,  with  an  occasional 
thug  into  the  bank,  stoppage  on  a  sand-bar  or  some  hidden  snag, 
the  detachment  arrived  in  Shreveport,  without  serious  accident,  at 
9  o'clock  A.  M.,  August  16,  after  a  trip  of  six  days. 


CHAPTER    XXXIX. 

CAMP  BOGGS. 

ON  the  arrival  of  the  regiment  at  Shreveport,  they  immediately 
disembarked,  and  proceeded  to  the  camping-ground  previously 
occupied  by  the  Crescent  Regiment,  about  one  and  a  half  miles  south 
of  Shreveport.  This  camp  was  situated  in  an  open  field,  regularly 
laid  off  in  avenues  and  cross-streets,  along  which  the  tents  were 
ranged  in  lines,  or  rows,  parallel  with  each  other.  The  ground 
slopes  gradually  away  on  every  side,  being  a  knoll  or  rolling  ground. 
On  the  west  and  north  was  a  small  stream,  half  encircling  the  camp, 
where  springs  furnished  an  abundant  and  refreshing  supply  of  cool 
water.  To  the  south  and  east  were  woodlands,  a  growth  of  huge 
pines,  red  and  white  oaks,  and  an  undergrowth  of  every  variety. 
Almost  an  -unobstructed  view  northward  was  furnished  by  the 
cleared  space  outside  the  line  of  fortifications  which  circumvented 
Shreveport  to  the  hills  which  overlook  the  valley,  formed  by  the 
junction  of  Red  River  and  Twelve-Mile  Bayou,  where  nestles  the 
city,  with  its  daily  life  and  activity ;  the  throbbing  heart,  that  sent 
its  pulsations,  its  life-giving  power  through  every  artery  of  tbe 
Trans-Mississippi  Department.  Fortifications  !  How  the  sight  of 
earth  works  recalled  Vicksburg,  with  its  scenes  of  horrors,  suffer 
ing  and  starvation,  making  even  the  veteran  soldier  shrink  from 
their  contiguity  ! 

One  unacquainted  with  Shreveport  at  this  period,  as  the  great 
central  point,  the  nucleus  of  all  military  operations,  could  scarcely 
imagine  the  activity  which  prevailed  there ;  the  influx  and  egress 
of  all  grades  of  military  officials  ;  the  arrival  and  departure  of 
steamers  and  trains,  shipment  and  receipt  of  stores,  etc.  Yet  out 
side  of  military  circles  there  was  nothing  enticing  or  attractive 
about  the  place,  and  the  mere  drone  of  society  would  soon  tire  of 
its  monotony — seek  in  vain  for  some  amusement  to  while  away  the 
listless  hours. 

Thus,  through  all  the  days  of  August,  time  sped  on  in  its  noise 
less  flight,  while  the  nations  of  earth  were  working  out  their  ap- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  327 

pointed  destinies — nations  as  varied  in  their  forms  of  government, 
as  there  are  differences  in  human  language,  color  and  races.  To  the 
careful  peruser  of  history,  it  would  be  a  difficult  task  to  determine 
which  is  the  best  adapted  form  of  government — conduces  most  to 
the  happiness,  prosperity  and  security  of  the  governed.  Not  an 
example  adorns  the  record  of  the  past  and  present  of  a  nation  which 
has  not  seen  revolution,  crime  and  bloodshed  ;  many,  indeed,  hav 
ing  disappeared  in  the  gloom  of  an  Egyptian  night,  never  again  to 
gain  a  position  among  the  nations  of  the  earth.  At  this  period,  it 
seemed  as  if  the  republican  form  of  government  was  a  failure.  The 
history  of  Rome,  Sparta,  Athens,  Switzerland  and  Poland,  all  down 
the  vista  of  years,  proclaimed  this  system  a  failure-  The  American 
Republic,  the  last  and  latest  of  the  earth,  seemed  about  to  disappear 
amid  such  convulsions  as  the  world  had  never  witnessed.  Yet  this 
disproved  not  the  perfection  of  a  free  government— its  claims  to 
pre-eminence  among  civilized  nations.  Fanaticism,  with  its  deadly 
poison,  pervaded  every  branch  of  the  National  Capitol,  and  ignor 
ing  the  provisions  and  safeguards  of  the  Constitution,  upon  which 
rested  the  whole  strength  of  the  American  Government — the  sov 
ereignty  of  States;  freedom  of  thought,  speech,  and  action  had 
plunged  the  land  into  the  vortex  of  civil  strife.  After  nearly  four 
years  of  a  fearful  struggle,  every  valley  and  hill-side  were  dotted 
with  .the  graves  of  its  victims— Northmen  and  Southmen  slept  to 
gether  in  calm  repose.  Yet  the  struggle  continued  undiminished, 
while  the  patriot  sons  of  the  South  still  heroically  battled  for  the 
preservation  of  their  rights  and  independence.  Alas  !  how  fallen 
seemed  this  once  proud  and  powerful  nation ! 

Shortly  after  the  arrival  of  the  Third  Regiment  at  Shreveport, 
the  men  were  furnished  with  good  shoes,  hats,  a  few  blankets, 
and  were  promised,  ere  long,  a  substantial  uniform. 

Strange  as  it  seemed,  up  to  this  period  this'  veteran  regiment  had 
been  furnished  with  but  little  clothing  in  two  years,  and  not  a  single 
substantial  uniform  by  the  Confederate  Government.  The  State  fur 
nished  a  handsome  uniform  while  the  regiment  was  at  Camp  Jack 
son,  Ark.,  under  Brigadier-General  Ben  McCulloch,  during  the  first 
year  of  the  war.  Now,  however,  the  men  seemed  hopeful  of  better 
treatment. 

As  a  matter  of  some  interest,  the  following  list  of  the  prices  of 
vegetables  and  fruit  are  given  for  reference  :  Butter,  $5  per  pound  ; 
eggs,  $5  per  dozen ;  beans,  $2  50  per  quart ;  apples,  25  to  50  cents 
each ;  melons,  $1  to  $5  each.  It  was  a  great  mystery  how  poor 
people  managed  to  live. 


328  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

On  the  last  day  of  August  the  regiment  in  camp  numbered  150 
men.  On  this  day  a  provost  guard  was  also  sent  to  town,  and  heavy 
details  made  for  the  different  departments,  Government  workshops, 
arsenals,  etc.  thus  reducing  the  number  of  men  in  camp,  and  making 
duty  very  onerous.  Besides  the  several  guard  details  in  town,  a  heavy 
guard  was  employed  at  the  Yankee  prison,  near  camp.  This  prison 
was  an  inclosure,  formed  by  heavy  oaken  timbers,  firmly  nailed  to 
gether,  and  set  some  distance  in  the  ground.  This  inclosure  was 
square  in  form,  and  covered  an  acre  or  two  of  ground.  Here 
both  Southern  delinquents  and  Northern  prisoners  were  alike  con 
fined. 

On  the  3d  of  September  the  second  detachment  arrived  in  camp, 
increasing  the  available  strength  of  the  regiment  to  about  300 
men.  This  detachment  was  composed  chiefly  of  members  of  the 
Eighth  Battalion  Louisiana  Heavy  Artillery  and  Twelfth  Louisiana 
Infantry.  Besides  these  men,  the  regiment  was  rapidly  being  filled 
with  recruits,  making  it  stronger  in  numbers  than  in  efficiency.  The 
arrival  of  a  squad  of  conscripts  in  camp  was  the  signal  for  a  general 
assemblage  of  the  veterans,  who  were  not  at  all  choice  or  backward 
in  pouring  forth  a  perfect  fusilade  of  jokes.  "  Give  me  the  little 
man  with  the  big,  two-story  hat."  "I  want  the  man  with  the 
wooden  leg."  "  Get  out ;  he's  my  choice."  "  I  wonder  if  they  have 
any  marks  about  their  legs,"  etc.,  were  some  of  the  expressions  used. 

Thus,  through  all  the  hot  days  of  September,  the  regiment  re 
mained  at  Camp  Boggs,  regularly  and  monotonously  performing 
their  duties  of  guard-mounting,  morning  drill,  policing  camp,  and 
evening  parade.  Such  were  the  days.  A  roseate  hue  would  tinge 
all  the  western  horizon,  or  light  clouds  flit  lazily  across  the  sky 
overhead,  and  camp-fires  glittered  among  the  long  rows  of  snow- 
white  tents  ;  shouts,  laughter,  the  hum  of  voices,  mingled  with  songs, 
sentimental  and  religious,  would  float  away  on  the  still  evening  air. 
Such  were  some  of  the  employments  and  duties  of  this  veteran  regi 
ment  at  this  period. 

Thus  the  days  slipped  away  into  the  irrevocable  past.  The  fierce 
storm-cloud  swept  in  its  fury  over  Virginia,  Georgia  and  Missouri. 
The  result  of  the  elections  in  several  Northern  States  proclaimed 
the  probability  of  no  change  in  the  political  status  of  the  land. 

On  the  night  of  the  8th  of  October  the  first  frost  visited  the 
country,  while  the  flight  of  migratory  birds  southward,  proclaimed 
the  approaching  advent  of  cold  weather.  The  men  were,  however, 
in  high  spirits,  having  a  good  supply  of  tents  and  neatly  constructed 
log-houses,  with  good  fireplaces  and  chimneys.  Thus  prepared  to 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  329 

meet  the  coming  winter  months,  they  laughed  in  derision  at  approach 
ing  cold. 

On  Saturday  night,  the  15th,  a  grand  vocal  and  instrumental  concert 
was  given  by  the  Shreveport  Glee  Club,  at  the  request  of  Governor  II. 
W.  Allen,  for  the  benefit  of  the  Missourians  serving  in  the  Trans-Missis 
sippi  Department.  This  club  had  but  recently  been  organized,  and 
was  composed  of  gentlemen  residing  in  Shreveport,  officers  belong 
ing  to  the  army,  several  members  of  the  regiment,  in  all  seventeen 
persons,  possessing  more  than  the  ordinary  musical  talent  of  ama 
teurs.  The  concert  was  complete,  both  as  to  its  success  and  the 
entertainment.  The  music  was  excellent,  and  the  large  theatre  hall 
crowded.  The  proceeds  resulted  in  the  handsome  amount  of  $5,000. 

After  the  performance,  the  audience  was  addressed  by  a  Missouri 
officer  present,  who  paid  a  glowing  tribute  to  the  sympathy  of 
Louisianians  for  their  sister  State,  in  which  the  Third  Louisiana  In 
fantry  was  warmly  eulogized  for  past  services  in  the  State  of  Missouri. 
Governor  Allen,  in  behalf  of  the  performers,  made  a  few  appropriate 
remarks  in  reply.  This  incident  is  worth  recording,  as  furnishing  a 
pleasant  episode  to  warlike  scenes,  and  exhibiting  the  feeling  which 
animated  Louisianians,  always  ready  to  extend  the  hand  of  fellow 
ship  to  her  suffering  sister  States.  The  latter  part  of  October  went 
out  amid  storm,  frost  and  ice.  The  forests  changed  their  emerald 
hue  for  the  manifold  coloring  of  autumn.  Icy  winter,  with  his  chill 
ing  breath  and  hoary  locks,  was  upon  us.  The  majority  of  South 
ern  soldiers  were  at  this  time  still  in  the  field  doing  their  duty  nobly, 
unflinchingly,  notwithstanding  the  wintry  season  added  greatly  to 
their  hardships  and  suffering.  They  needed  warm  clothing,  espe 
cially  socks  and  gloves.  It  seemed  as  if  the  old  days  of  Valley 
Forge,  with  its  horrors,  would  be  re-enacted.  The  Third  Louisiana 
Infantry,  but  recently  returned  from  firesides  and  homes,  were  per 
haps  better  supplied  than  most  regiments,  yet  were  actually  in  noed 
of  warm  clothing.  The  Government,  up  to  this  period,  had  furnished 
nothing  save  a  few  blankets  and  shoes.  Fortunately,  they  had 
plenty  of  shelter — both  tents  and  cabins.  Louisiana's  noble  and 
warm-hearted  Governor,  H.  W.  Allen,  one  who  knew  a  soldier's 
wants  from  personal  experience,  furnished  the  men  of  the  regiment, 
with  a  number  of  suits  of  clothes,  comprising  pants  and  shirts, 
homespun,  and  entirely  cotton.  Inadequate  though  it  might  be  to 
keep  out  the  chilling,  wintry  air,  heartfelt  expressions  of  gratitude 
were  bestowed  on  him,  for  his  remembrance  of  one  of  Louisiana's 
veteran  volunteer  regiments.  Strange  as  it  seemed,  this  old  regi 
ment,  with  its  scarred  veterans  and  depleted  ranks,  its  wide-spread 


330  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

reputation,  had  never  been  properly  clothed  since  its  organization, 
save  by  the  State.  The  mother  is  always  most  solicitous  for  the 
welfare  and  safety  of  her  children. 

Nearly  the  whole  month  of  November  was  cold,  stormy  and 
gloomy,  and  consequently  the  men  suffered  in  proportion.  The 
Northern  election  gave  rise  to  fierce  political  discussion  among  the 
Confederates,  who  seemed  to  anticipate  some  species  of  relief  from 
the  election  of  McClellan.  Lincoln's  return  to  office  by  a  large  and 
increased  vote  put  an  end  to  the  discussion  which  agitated  the 
Southern  mind.  Reconstruction,  and  General  McClellan's  peace 
measures  .founded  thereon,  all  disappeared.  The  general  sentiment 
among  the  soldiers  was  satisfaction  at  the  result  of  the  Presidential 
contest.  Lincoln's  plans  and  purposes  were  known,  and  the  only 
hope  of  defeating  them  seemed  in  a  persistent  and  determined  armed 
resistance.  Yet  there  were  numbers  greatly  dissatisfied,  and  openly 
proclaimed  their  sentiments.  It  mattered  little  to  them  that  the 
South  had  resolved  to  succeed  or  perish  amid  the  ruins  of  the  mag 
nificent  temple  she  was  endeavoring  to  rear  amid  a  baptism  of  the 
richest  blood  of  the  people.  They  were  disappointed  and  suffering. 
Forbearance  against  existing  abuses  and  patriotism  were  ceasing  to 
be  virtues  ;  hence  constant  and  frequent  cases  of  desertion  occurred. 
Thus  dissatisfaction  and  demoralization  pervaded  the  army,  while 
among  the  people  at  home  speculation  and  extortion  ruled  affairs. 
Letters  from  the  army  said :  "  It  is  no  wonder  men  desert,  for 
scarcely  a  letter  comes  from  their  homes  that  does  not  tell  of  grim 
want  and  pinching  hunger  standing  at  their  thresholds.  Those  at 
home,  whose  duty  it  should  be  to  protect  and  provide  for  poor 
families  of  men  who  are  in  the  army,  are  deaf  to  the  calls  of  duty." 
The  Third  Regiment  was  not  exempt  from  the  prevailing  contagion, 
and  numerous  desertions  occurred,  principally  among  the  recruits. 

It  was  a  hard  matter  for  a  man  to  know  that  his  wTife  and  little 
ones  were  suffering  at  home,  and  he  not  permitted  to  relieve  their 
wants.  Every  fierce  blast  of  the  wintry  wind  that  shrieked  around 
his  tent  or  log-hut  brought  vividly  before  him  his  own  home  circle, 
a  picture  of  squalidness,  suffering  and  want.  The  voice  of  nature 
would  be  heard  as  it  tugged  at  his  heart-strings.  Around  that  home, 
centred  and  clustered  all  the  bright  hopes  and  aims  of  his  life.  What 
wonder,  then,  that  duties  were  forgotten,  and  only  the  warm  and 
loving  impulse  of  his  own  nature  followed ! 


CHAPTER  XL. 

THE  monotony  of  camp  was  seldom  disturbed  during  the  winter 
months,  save  by  some  practical  joke  or  foray  at  the  expense  of  the  poor 
conscript.  The  weather  was  unusually  rainy  and  stormy,  yet  happy, 
very  many  happy  hours  were  spent  in  those  rough  log-huts,  despite 
storms  without.  Christmas  Day,  1864,  was  a  cloudy,  raw,  disagreea 
ble  one,  yet  the  boys  were  early  astir,  and  seemed  disposed  to  enjoy 
the  occasion  to  the  full  bent  of  their  inclinations  and  means.  Egg- 
nog  seemed  a  prevailing  beverage,  while  towards  the  dinner  hour, 
various  and  sundry  savory  and  unusual  dishes  were  to  be  found  in 
course  of  preparation. 

At  one  tent,  a  party  consisting  of  Major  Richards,  Lieutenants 
Emanuel,  Company  u  C,"  and  Washburn,  Company  "  B,"  Sergeant 
F.  D.  Tunnard,  Company  "  K,"  Sergeant  R.  Brennan,  Company  t:  F," 
Sergeant  W.  H.  Tunnard,  A.  C.  S.  Department  and  Corporal  J.  R. 
Nash,  Company  "  H,"  sat  down  most  cozily  to  dinner,  consisting  of  a 
fine  roast  turkey,  light  bread  and  butter,  potatoes,  pies,  cake  and 
coffee.  They  enjoyed  the  repast  most  royally,  laughing  and  chatting 
over  their  dinner,  eaten  from  tinware,  as  if  it  had  been  a  regal  feast, 
daintily  prepared  and  partaken  of  from  dishes  of  the  most  costly 
and  exquisite  porcelain.  It  was  undoubtedly  enjoyed  as  if  such  had 
really  been  the  case. 

The  new  year  dawned  clear  and  pleasant,  with  the  thunder  of  war 
echoing  over  the  land.  The  year  1865  witnessed  one  of  the  most 
fierce  desperate  and  bloody  struggles  that  the  world  ever  saw.  The 
holidays  passed  away  with  little  of  interest  transpiring.  Of  course 
Shreveport  was  the  theatre  of  many  gay  and  festive  scenes  among 
the  post  officers.  To  the  private  soldier  they  differed  little  fi'om 
other  days.  He  had  the  same  round  of  duties  to  perform,  with 
out  relaxation  or  relief.  Ah!  how  he  missed  the  joyous  scenes 
and  festivities  of  more  peaceful  times,  when  he  mingled  in  gay 
throngs,  or  participated  in  the  pleasant  reunions  around  the  home 
altar !  Such  memories  were  of  the  past,  while  the  present  was  full 


332  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

of  clouded  realities,  and  the  future  seemed  to  contain  no  olive-branch 
of  peace  for  the  land. 

On  the  8th  of  January  the  regiment  received  a  complete  outfit  of 
clothing,  consisting  of  hats,  shirts,  drawers,  shoes,  socks,  blankets, 
and  a  fine  suit  of  Confederate  gray  cloth.  Of  course  the  excitement 
and  rejoicing  were  great  over  such  good  fortune,  and  Captain 
Hanna's  Acting  Quartermaster' s  tent  was  encircled  by  a  perfect  dense 
wall  of  living,  jostling,  boisterous  and  rude  men.  It  was  an  un 
usually  pleasant  and  agreeable  scene.  During  the  past  week  there 
had  been  an  unusual  advent  of  military  celebrities  in  Shreveport, 
consisting  of  Generals  Price,  Buckner,  Forney  and  Polignac.  Men 
began  to  speculate  as  to  whether  it  did  not  portend  early  active 
operations.  On  the  llth  troops  were  moving  through  Shreveport, 
going  below. 

January  was  very  rainy,  and  contained  little  of  interest  beyond 
the  agitation  of  the  question  of  peace.  Constant  and  accumulated 
disasters  falling  upon  Southern  arms,  made  the  hearts  of  the  people 
as  sad  and  gloomy  as  the  dark  stormy  days. 

On  the  15th  of  February,  notices  were  published,  tendering  an 
ovation  to  General  Forney's  Division  by  the  citizens  of  Bossier  and 
Caddo  Parishes.  General  Forney  remembered  the  gallant  regiment 
which  once  served  so  heroically  under  him,  and  sent  an  invitation 
to  the  veterans  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry,  proposing  to  pay 
them  marked  and  special  honors.  Upon  this  distinguished  occasion 
the  invitation  was  most  cordially  accepted.  Now  began  active 
preparations  for  this  important  event.  All  the  veterans  of  the 
regiment  were  daily  drilled,  arms,  equipments,  and  clothing  duly 
inspected.  The  number  of  old  members  present  was  150.  It 
seemed  something  like  former  times  to  witness  the  evolutions,  firm, 
even  tread,  erect  carriage  of  this  battalion  of  stalwart,  bronzed 
veterans. 

In  accordance  with  previously  published  notice,  the  grand  festival 
and  barbecue  occurred  on  Saturday,  February  18th,  1865.  The  day 
was  one  of  peculiar  loveliness — a  bright  blue  sky,  golden  sunlight,  and 
a  fresh,  balmy  spring  atmosphere.  It  seemed  as  if  Providence  was 
smiling  with  lavish  bounty  upon  the  scene.  At  9  o'clock  A.  M.,  the 
detachment  of  the  Third,  preceded  by  General  Forney's  Division 
band,  proceeded  to  the  place  for  the  review.  At  10  o'clock  the 
division  was  drawn  up  in  line  of  battle  in  a  large  open  old  field, 
west  of  Colonel  Watson's  residence,  facing  and  parallel  with  the 
Marshall  road,  about  two  miles  from  Shreveport.  They  were  first 
inspected  by  Lieutcnant-General  E.  Kirby  Smith,  attended  by  Major- 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY. 

Generals  Magruder  and  Forney,  followed  by  their  respective  staff- 
officers. 

At  an  early  hour  an  immense  concourse  of  fair  ladies  from  far  and 
near,  together  with  citizens,  soldiers  and  negroes,  had  assembled 
upon  the  ground,  giving  to  the  scene  an  appearance  of  great  festiv 
ity.  After  the  inspection,  the  regiments  wheeled  into  columns  by 
companies,  and  marched  in  review  before  the  general  officers,  posted 
in  front  and  centre  of  the  line.  As  far  as  the  eye  could  reach  was 
this  moving  mass  of  men,  their  arms  glittering  like  burnished  silver 
in  the  morning  sunbeams,  while  in  front,  along  the  whole  line,  was 
the  assembly  of  Louisiana's  fair  daughters  and  gray-haired  men, 
gracing  with  their  presence  the  warlike  scene.  The  review  being 
finished,  the  lines  were  formed,  advancing  in  columns  of  attack,  pre 
ceded  by  a  line  of  skirmishers,  and  then  retreating  in  double-quick, 
the  regiments  formed  into  columns  of  companies,  making  two  oppos 
ing  lines  of  battle  after  breaking  to  the  rear.  They  then  changed 
front  to  the  rear  on  the  left  of  the  first  line,  advancing  to  the  attack. 
First  was  heard  the  scattering  fire  of  the  skirmishers,  seen  the  small 
puffs  of  white  smoke  of  the  rifles  extending  from  left  to  right  far 
into  the  woods  skirting  the  field.  This  was  soon  followed  by  the 
roar  of  a  piece  of  artillery,  then  another  and  another,  mingled  with 
volleys  of  musketry  as  the  line  advanced. 

A  battery  in  front  belched  forth  its  thunder,  and  clouds  of  sul 
phurous  smoke  mounted  into  the  air,  and  rolled  away  on  the  morn 
ing  breeze.  This  was  answered  by  a  fierce  volley  of  musketry  and  a 
charge  by  the  line,  who  with  fierce  yells  rushed  on  the  guns,  gallant 
ly  led  by  the  color-bearers.  The  whole  scene  was  a  fine  representa 
tion  of  one  of  those  bloody  dramas  which  had  so  frequently  deluged 
Southern  soil  with  a  crimson  stain,  and  sent  a  thrill  of  joy  or  woe 
from  the  centre  to  circumference  of  a  struggling  people.  Yet  this 
was  devoid  of  the  horrors  attending  an  actual  battle.  Still,  so  ex 
citing  and  impressive  was  the  scene,  that  some  fair  ladies  feinted, 
others  screamed,  while  down  the  blanched  yet  handsome  features  of 
others  coursed  the  tears  caused  by  some  sad  memory  thus  vividly 
brought  to  light  of  similar  scenes  of  stern  reality,  where,  far  away 
on  bloody  battle-fields,  fell  the  loved  ones. 

The  division  now  formed  in  columns  of  regiments  near  the  reviewing 
officers,  for  the  purpose  of  being  presented  to  that  gallant  band  ;  the 
veterans  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry,  who  were  present  by  special 
invitation,  and  as  the  honored  guests  of  the  occasion.  This  organi 
zation,  preceded  by  a  strong  field-band,  was  now  marched  on  the 
ground,  making  a  fine  appearance  in  their  new  uniforms,  burnished 


33-1  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

rifles,  and  a  beautiful  banner  floating  above  them.     They  were  in 
spected  by  General  Forney,  who  then  rode  to  their  front  and  saluted 
them,  which  was  responded  to  by  three  hearty  cheers  from  the  men. 
Marching  close  to  the  division,  General  Forney  then  introduced 
them  as  follows : 

"  I  have  the  honor  of  introducing  to  you  that  gallant  band,  the 
veterans  of  the  Third  Louisiana.  They  are  birds  of  the  same  feather 
as  yourselves.  I  do  not  speak  unadvisedly  when  I  tell  you  they  are 
true  and  tried  soldiers.  For  forty-eight  consecutive  days  did  this 
gallant  band  stand  amid  shot  and  shell  as  thick  as  hail.  Though 
thinned  in  ranks  and  few,  yet,  like  yourselves,  does  each  one  feel  as 
if  he  was  a  host  in  himself.  I  propose  three  cheers  for  the  veterans 
of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry." 

The  cheers  were  given  with  a  wild  enthusiasm,  exhibiting  the 
high  appreciation  in  which  the  "  veterans  "  were  held  by  their  fel 
low-soldiers.  The  division  presented  arms,  banners  were  waved 
amid  strains  of  music  from  the  band.  This  compliment  was  returned 
by  the  regiment.  The  arms  were  then  stacked,  and,  mingling  to 
gether,  the  troops  attended  the  speaking.  This  was  the  first  ovation 
to  this  Veteran  Louisiana  Regiment,  and  as  such,  to-day  forms  the 
brightest  chapter  in  their  history,  and  is  remembered  with  feelings 
of  deep  gratitude,  and  added  yet  greater  incentive  to  the  high  re 
spect  entertained  by  them  for  their  old  commander,  Major-Gen eral 
Forney.  Addresses,  concise,  pointed  and  stirring,  were  now  deliver 
ed  to  the  vast  concourse  of  people  by  Colonel  Louis  Bush,  Colonel 
George  Flournoy,  and  Colonel  R.  R.  Hubbard.  Governor  H.  "W. 
Allen,  though  absent,  sent  a  letter  of  welcome  to  the  hospitalities  of 
Louisiana  to  this  war-worn  division  of  Texans.  After  the  addresses 
were  finished,  all  repaired  to  the  tables,  where  a  bountiful  and  sub 
stantial  repast  sufficient  for  all  was  spread.  Here,  the  Louisianians 
were  again  specially  honored  by  having  tables  exclusively  set  apart 
for  them.  The  utmost  harmony,  cordiality  and  good  feeling  pre 
vailed,  and  not  an  incident  occurred  to  mar  the  festivities.  The  reg 
iment  made  a  fine  appearance.  The  banner,  it  was  stated,  was  a 
new  one,  very  beautiful.  It  attracted  great  attention,  and  was  con 
stantly  surrounded  by  crowds  of  admirers. 

It  was  a  red  field  bordered  with  yellow,  with  a  deep,  heavy  gold 
fringe.  In  its  centre  are  two  blue  scrolls,  almost  in  the  form  of  an 
X,  having  embroidered  on  them,  with  yellow  floss  silk,  the  mottoes : 
"'Oak  Hills,"  "  Elk  Horn,"  "  luka,"  and  "  Corinth."  In  the  upper 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  335 

right-hand  corner  is  a  cross  of  white  silk,  with  twelve  stars  set  thereon 
of  yellow  gold  thread,  bordered  with  black  velvet  cord.  The  flag  is 
of  fine  silk  the  trimmings  being  of  the  finest  and  costliest  materials. 
It  was  manufactured  by  Mrs.  T.  L.  Maxwell  in  South  Carolina,  pre 
vious  to  the  fall  of  Vicksburg.  It  was  presented  to  the  regiment  by 
Captain  T.  L.  Maxwell,  formerly  regimental  A.  C.  S.,  at  that  time 
post  A.  C.  S.  at  Jackson,  Mississippi.  It  escaped  the  misfortune  of 
ever  entering  Vicksburg  by  mere  accident,  and  reached  the  regi 
ment  when  they  began  to  assemble  in  Parole  Camp  at  Enterprise. 
Tliis  flag  was  successfully  carried  across  the  river  by  Captain  M. 
Middlebrook,  Company  C,  and  was  exhibited  for  the  first  and  last 
time  on  this  occasion  of  distinguished  honor  paid  the  Veteran  Louis 
iana  Regiment.  The  18th  of  February  will  not  soon  be  forgotten 
by  the  immense  concourse  assembled  near  Shreveport.  Upwards  of 
15,000  people  were  present  on  this  occasion. 

This  incident  seemed  to  be  the  ending  of  any  excitement,  until  to 
wards  the  first  of  April,  when  depredations  and  robberies  began  to 
be  so  prevalent  in  and  around  Shreveport,  that  a  special  patrol  un 
der  commissioned  officers,  mostly  picked  men,  guarded  the  city.  It 
became  dangerous  for  even  General  Smith  or  any  staff  officers  to  be 
caught  in  the  streets  at  night.  Consequently,  some  ridiculous 
scenes  occurred  between  the  veteran  patrols  and  the  post  officers. 
One  night  the  guard  was  inspected  and  drilled  in  the  streets  by  an 
officer  duly  belted  with  sabre  and  sash.  Another  night  an  old  Cap 
tain  was  arrested  for  not  allowing  a  staff  officer  to  interfere  with  his 
instructions,  which  he  assumed  he  knew  better  than  the  Captain. 
These  episodes  caused  much  sport  as  well  as  indignation  among  the 
men.  At  this  period  much  excitement  existed  over  the  constant  re 
verses  befalling  the  Confederate  armies.  Sherman's  successful  march 
through  Georgia  and  the  Carolinas  the  final  surrender  of  General 
Lee,  caused  a  culmination  in  the  excitement.  Commissioners  from 
General  Canby  to  General  E.  Kirby  Smith,  reached  Shreveport  early 
in  May.  Confusion,  worse  confounded  reigned  everywhere  among 
troops  and  citizens.  On  the  10th  of  May  Camp  Boggs  presented  a 
strange  spectacle.  The  men  were  gathered  in  groups  everywhere, 
discussing  the  approaching  surrender.  Curses  deep  and  bitter  fell 
from  lips  not  accustomed  to  use  such  language,  while  numbers,  both 
officers  and  men,  swore  fearful  oaths  never  to  surrender.  It  was 
such  a  scene  as  one  seldom  cares  to  witness.  The  depth  of  feeling  ex 
hibited  by  compressed  lips,  pale  faces,  and  blazing  eyes,  told  a  fear 
ful  story  of  how  bitter  was  this  hopeless  surrender  of  the  cause  for 
which  they  had  fought,  toiled,  suffered  for  long  years.  The  huniili- 


336  A   SOUTHERN   EECORD. 

ation  was  unbearable.  Paper  money  became  worthless ;  rations  were 
issued  in  large  quantities ;  such  as  coffee,  and  other  delicacies.  The 
weather  kept  clear  and  pleasant,  as  if  in  mockery  to  the  general 
gloom  and  despondency.  Sunday  the  13th,  Shreveport  was  quiet. 
Troops  began  to  leave  for  home,  openly  and  unmolested ;  yet  the 
Third  remained.  The  15th  was  cloudy  and  rainy.  Shreveport  was 
crowded  with  citizens.  Ammunition  was  loaded  into  wagons  and 
sent  away. 

On  the  16th,  rumors  were  in  circulation  in  camp  that  Shreveport 
would  be  set  on  fire  that  night  and  plundered.  This  report  impli 
cated  members  of  the  Third  Regiment,  but  to  their  honor  it  was 
subsequently  discovered  that  this  report  was  false.  That  night  some 
one  stole  the  drum  and  beat  it  in  camp.  No  one  could  be  found  who 
knew  anything  of  the  matter.  Doubtless  it  was  a  practical  joke 
played  by  some  fun-loving  member  of  the  regiment  on  the  strength 
of  the  general  excitement.  Be  this  as  it  may,  the  whole  camp  was 
aroused  and  orders  issued  for  the  regiment  to  promptly  fall  in.  The 
order  was  quickly  obeyed.  Colonel  Pierson,  in  command,  made  a 
few  stirring  remarks,  telling  the  men  "  that  Shreveport  was  about  to 
be  plundered  and  destroyed  ;"  that  he  expected  every  man  to  do  his 
duty  as  a  soldier,  and  the  people  of  the  town  were  looking  to  them 
for  protection.  They  must  not,  should  not  be  disappointed.  He 
hoped  the  men  would  uphold  their  former  honor  and  reputation, 
and  be  as  firm  and  true  as  steel."  Ammunition  was  issued  to  the 
regiment,  then  came  the  commands,  u  Right  face,  forward  by  file  left 
— march,"  delivered  in  clear,  deep-ringing  tones ;  and  the  regiment 
was  off  for  Shreveport.  That  night  they  bivouacked  in  the  Court- 
House  yard  ;  and  the  city  remained  quiet  and  undisturbed,  save  by 
the  patrols  firm  footsteps  in  their  rounds. 

The  next  day  was  the  17th  of  May.  For  four  long  years  had  the 
Third  Louisiana  Infantry  battled  for  the  South,  homes  and  freedom ; 
four  long  years  of  horrors,  suffering,  toil  and  bloodshed.  They  had 
trod  the  soil  of  Arkansas.  Missouri,  Tennessee,  Mississippi,  and  left 
their  heroic  dead  upon  the  hills  and  plains  of  those  States  ;  and,  now 
once  more  in  their  native  State,  were  to  witness  the  final  overthrow 
of  the  Confederacy.  They  must  relinquish  arms  and  see  their 
proud  banner  trailed  in  the  dust,  never  more  to  be  raised  by  mortal 
hands.  What  a  torturing  reality  for  their  brave  and  noble  spirits  ! 
This  day  camp  was  formally  established  in  the  Court-IIouse  yard. 
A  division  of  Missourians  arrived  also. 

On  the  18th  they  were  informed  that  the  Missourians  had  come  to 
relieve  them.  They  became  indignant  and  furious,  and  threatened 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  337 

to  leave  en  masse.  A  delegation  of  prominent  citizens  besought 
them  to  remain.  Governor  Allen  addressed  them  most  feelingly. 
All  in  vain.  That  day  a  Missouri  Colonel  addressed  his  regiment, 
and  informed  the  men  that  they  had  been  sent  there  to  guard  the 
Louisiana  Regiment.  Such,  at  least,  was  reported  to  them.  That 
afternoon  they  were  relieved,  and  sentinels  placed  around  them,  who 
officiously  told  the  men  they  were  stationed  there  to  guard  them.  In 
jured  in  feeling,  wounded  in  pride  and  spirit,  the  brave  boys  carried 
out  their  threat. 

.  The  morning  of  the  19th  found  the  majority  of  the  regiment  gone, 
or  preparing  to  leave.  They  were  allowed  to  take  Government  horses, 
mules  and  wagons,  and  leave  the  place.  Clothes,  linen,  cotton, 
thread,  buttons,  leather,  etc.,  from  the  Quartermaster's  Department, 
were  issued  to  them  in  such  quantities  that  they  were  unable  to  carry 
them  away  or  dispose  of  them.  The  condition  of  affairs  was  ter 
rible,  awful,  heart-rending. 

On  the  20th  the  men  were  all  furloughed  by  the  Confederate 
authorities,  or,  more  properly  speaking,  formally  discharged  from 
the  Confederate  army.  Numbers  left,  declaring  they  would  take 
neither  furlough,  discharge  nor  parole.  Many  went  down  the  river 
in  pontoons.  The  officers  staid  with  the  men  until  the  finale.  Major 
Richards  left  on  the  20th,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  Pierson  on  the 
21st.  The  parting  among  the  veterans  was  most  affecting.  Many 
put  their  arms  around  each  other  and  sobbed  like  children ;  others 
gave  the  strong  grasp  of  the  hand,  and  silently  went  away  with 
hearts  too  full  for  utterance,  while  still  others  would  mutter  a  huskily 
spoken  "  good-bye  "  or  deep  oath.  Such  were  some  of  the  farewell 
scenes.  Together  in  battle  or  camp,  in  sunshine  and  storm,  in  suffer 
ing  and  pleasure,  in  sorrow  and  joy,  on  the  weary  and  toilsome  march  ! 
No  wonder  that  their  hearts  were  linked  together  in  bands  of  steel, 
with  ties  unspeakable,  inexpressible.  No  wonder  the  parting,  per 
haps  for  years,  perhaps  forever,  wrung  their  souls  with  torturing 
agony. 

Sunday,  the  21st,  was  hot.  The  streets  were  thronged  with  people. 
All  the  Government  stores  were  thrown  open.  Then  began  a  scene 
which  beggared  description.  Government  stores,  of  every  imagin 
able  description,  were  seized,  the  streets  filled  with  goods,  official 
papers,  etc.,  scattered  everywhere.  It  was  awful,  terrible  beyond 
portrayal.  Large  quantities  of  these  goods  were  eagerly  bought  for 
silver  by  rapacious  speculators.  To  the  honor  of  the  Missouriuns 
be  it  recorded,  that  they  soon  restored  order,  seized  the  goods  from 
the  speculators,  and  stored  them  in  the  Court-House. 
15 


338  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

At  this  period  Confederate  officers  disappeared  very  suddenly ; 
the  stars  and  bars  mysteriously  departed,  but  citizens  in  fine  apparel 
became  quite  numerous.  Passing  strange  ! 

This  same  evening,  as  the  sun  sank  below  the  western  horizon, 
tinging  the  waters  of  Red  River  with  a  roseate  hue,  two  pontoons 
left  the  wharf  at  Shreveport,  and  went  down  the  river.  Those  pon 
toons  contained  the  last  departing  members  of  the  regiment.  In  one 
were  Captain  K  M.  Middlebrook,  Company  C ;  Captain  W.  B.  But 
ler,  Company  G  ;  Captain  Curry,  Company  H ;  Sergeant  F.  D.  Tun- 
nard,  Company  K ;  Sergeant  W.  H.  Tunnard ;  Trichel,  Com 
pany  D,  and  one  private  of  Company  C.  The  other  pontoon  con 
tained  Captain  T.  Gourrier,  Company  A,  and  six  privates  of  the 
same  company. 

Such  was  the  finale  of  the  regiment,  whose  members  had  done 
their  duty  nobly  from  their  first  organization  to  the  period  of  their 
dissolution.  Their  name  for  deeds  of  daring  and  heroic  sacrifices 
was  proverbial,  and  was  known  from  the  hills  of  Virginia  to  the 
plains  of  Texas.  For  patient  endurance,  silent  suffering  and  sacri 
fice,  unconquerable  bravery  and  stubborn,  desperate  fighting,  they 
had  no  superior  among  the  many  gallant  regiments  of  the  Confed 
eracy.  Let  the  veil  of  obscurity  fall  over  the  deeds  of  those  who 
often  were  misled  during  moments  of  excitement,  or  blindly  followed 
their  own  wishes  in  preference  to  military  orders.  The  curtain  falls 
upon  the  bloody  drama  of  war ;  the  foot-lights  have  been  extin 
guished  ;  the  actors  have  all  departed ;  the  audience  of  the  world's 
wondering  nations  turned  to  other  scenes.  The  pen  which  has  clot 
ted  these  reminiscences  through  long  and  weary  months  is  laid  aside, 
as  white- winged  Peace,  all  radiant  with  joy,  settles  down  once  more 
upon  the  land  of  Columbia. 


CHATTER    XLI. 

SCENES   FROM   CAMP  LIFE   AT   CAMP  BOGGS. 
THAT  MUSIC. 

"  Oh,  were  you  ne'er  a  school-boy ! 
And  did  you  never  train  ?" 

THESE  lines  were  forcibly  brought  to  mind  by  an  unusual  sound 
being  heard  in  our  camp  this  Sunday  evening,  October  2,  A.  D.  1864  ; 
being  no  less  than  the  music  of  a  full  band,  bass  and  tenor  drums 
and  fife.  So  unusual  an  occurrence  soon  brought  together  a  large 
circle  of  admiring  spectators,  who  interspersed  the  performance  with 
remarks  both  polite  and  profane.  What  mattered  it  that  novices, 
yea !  verily,  the  greenest  of  amateurs,  essayed  their  first  efforts  ! 
Was  it  not  music  ?  Did  not  the  heart  expand  under  its  revivifying 
influence  ?  The  forms  of  some  drew  up  to  their  full  height,  as  with 
martial  tread  they  inarched  off  with  firm  military  step. .  The  great 
spirit  of  Shakspeare  haunted  not  the  hearts  of  the  musicians,  pro 
claiming  from  his  mouldering  dust  these  forcible  words  : 

"  He  that  hath  not  music  in  himself,  and  whose  soul  is  not  moved 
by  sweet  concord  of  sounds,  is  fit  for  treason,  stratagem  and  spoils/' 

Soldiers  naturally  love  music,  yet  have  we  heard  them  curse,  u  long, 
loud  and  deep,"  at  the  roll  of  a  tenor  drum,  calling  them  from  morn 
ing  sleep  or  to  daily  drill.  The  introduction  of  so  much  musical 
material  into  the  Third  Louisiana  Regiment,  however,  is  a  novelty, 
even  to  the  veterans,  and  well  worth  recording. 

PREACHING   IN   CAMP. 

Preaching  to  soldiers  in  these  times  of  war  and  bloodshed  is 
oftener  the  exception  than  the  general  rule ;  especially  had  such 
been  the  case  during  our  experience  of  nearly  four  years'  campaign 
ing.  Perhaps  other  commands  have  been  more  blessed  in  this  respect 
than  the  one  to  which  I  am  attached  ;  true  is  it,  however,  that  the 
rank  growth  of  vice  and  sin  has  been  permitted  to  spring  up  and 
flourish  unchecked  in  our  midst,  under  the  demoralizing  influence  of 


340  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

war's  fierce  blast.  An  occasional  warning  voice  has  been  beard  in 
our  midst,  yet  Christianity  has  few  supporters,  and  very  seldom  is 
the  heartfelt  hymn  or  prayer  heard.  Yet  the  expounder  of  truth 
always  finds  a  respectable  and  attentive  audience  in  the  regiment. 

But  a  few  days  since  a  preacher  came  into  our  midst  and  exercised 
the  peculiar  privilege  of  his  vocation.  'Twas  night.  The  pale  cres 
cent  moon  wrapped  the  earth  in  an  uncertain  light.  The  stars  looked 
down  from  the  far  -  off  realms  of  space  like  the  sleepless  eye  of 
Omnipotence.  Gathered  in  one  of  the  avenues  of  the  camp  were  a 
number  of  the  men,  quietly,  attentively  listening  to  words  which  fell 
from  the  lips  of  a  speaker  standing  in  their  midst ;  a  dim  candle 
lighted  the  scene  ;  its  feeble  flame  flickering  in  the  evening  air  and 
making  dancing  shadows  around  the  group.  It  was  the  picture  for 
the  pencil  of  a  Rembrandt,  or  the  pen  of  a  Goethe.  The  speaker, 
with  his  gray  locks  and  wrinkled  brow,  showing  the  footprints  of 
time,  standing  in  the  midst  of  that  group  of  eager  listeners — men  just 
entering  the  threshold  of  life,  yet  whose  vocations  placed  their  feet 
upon  the  verge  of  the  grave— the  rows  of  tents,  the  black  groupings 
of  adjacent  shelters,  all  made  an  impressive  scene.  Occasionally, 
mingling  with  the  speaker's  words,  came  laughter  from  some  group 
assembled  around  a  camp-fire  near  by,  or  a  shout  of  some  unthink 
ing,  free-hearted  stroller  about  camp.  Words,  rich  with  eloquent 
meaning,  rolled  from  that  aged  speaker's  lips,  like  rippling  waves 
of  ocean,  successively,  rapidly  breaking  upon  a  sanded  shore  ;  the 
light  of  a  hidden  power  burned  in  his  eyes,  as  he  pleaded,  warned 
and  urged  his  hearers  of  the  life  to  come,  and  the  consequences  of  an 
unprepared  condition  for  its  hidden  realities.  The  exhortation  fin 
ished,  a  closing  hymn  was  sung,  rolling  its  waves  of  pure  melody 
out  upon  the  night's  still  air,  over  the  adjacent  hills  and  valleys,  the 
benediction  pronounced  and  the  audience  dispersed  to  discuss,  some 
in  serious,  others  in  jocular  vein,  the  subject-matter  of  the  dis 
course. 

Such  is  one  of  the  occasional,  more  impressive  scenes  from  our 
camp  life. 

THE    STORM. 

On  the  morning  of  November  1st  clouds  gathered  in  heavy  masses, 
shutting  out  the  light  of  the  sun's  golden  rays,  obscuring  all  the 
heavens.  Northward  they  sped,  with  their  fleecy  vapors,  flitting  by 
with  arrowy  speed,  towards  the  distant  north.  Anon  they  discharged 
their  gathered  moisture,  with  steady  fall  upon  the  dying  earth. 
The  drops  fell  with  regular  rapidity  upon  the  canvas  roofs  of  our 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  341 

sheltering  tents  like  the  pattering  footsteps  of  many  feet.  Snugly 
ensconced  beneath  their  several  tents,  the  soldiers  whiled  away  the 
tedious  hours  of  their  confinement  with  song,  story  and  anecdote. 

There  came  a  lull  in  the  storm,  a  stray  gleam  of  sunlight  fell  across 
the  earth  from  a  rift  in  the  clouds  o'erhead.  'Twas  but  a  moment 
ary  delusive  lull.  Soon  in  the  north  and  west  gathered  a  long  line 
of  inky  blackness  athwart,  which  gleamed  with  vivid  light  the 
lightning's  brilliant  Hash,  followed  by  the  deep  and  muttered  roll  of 
the  jarring  thunder.  Gleam  followed  gleam  in  rapid  succession, 
accompanied  by  deeper,  louder  roar  of  the  crashing  roll  of  heaven's 
artillery.  Nearer,  yet  nearer,  came  the  black  shadow  of  the  storm- 
king  ;  Boreas,  in  all  the  fierceness  of  wrathful  power  preceded  his 
approach.  In  all  its  fury  it  burst  upon  our  exposed  encampment. 
Fiercely  descended  the  wind  in  powerful,  fitful  gusts,  accompanied 
by  a  deluge  of  descending  rain.  What  a  scene  was  there — a  hurrying 
to  and  fro  !  Loud  shouts  and  laughter  of  the  imprisoned  men  rising 
high  above  the  storm's  deep-toned  roar.  Tents,  released  from  their 
fastenings  fell  in  ruins  upon  their  occupants.  Flies  flew  upward  like 
a  huge  white-winged  bird,  their  ropes  and  tackle  streaming  out  from 
their  sides.  Luckless  victims  to  the  storm-king's  sport  emerged  like 
drowned  rats  from  the  shrouds  of  their  tents  amid  the  shouts  and 
laughter  of  their  more  fortunate  comrades.  No  respecter  of  persons 
is  the  storm  in  its  wrath,  and  officers  suffered  equally  with  privates. 
Tent  after  tent,  shelters  and  sheds  bowed  before  the  inexorable  mon 
arch,  until  the  camp  presented  a  woeful  picture  of  desolation  and  dis 
aster.  The  sergeant-major  assisted  by  the  adjutant,  each  convulsively 
clutched  the  poles  of  their  local  habitation,  and  tenaciously  clung  to 
them  with  the  desperation  of  despair,  yet  convulsed  with  laughter  as 
the  storm  swayed  them  to  and  fro  like  the  steps  of  a  drunken  man.  Our 
surgeon,  in  fiery  haste  arrived  from  Shreveport  to  escape  the  threat 
ened  storm,  and  hurriedly  darted  beneath  the  shelter  of  his  tent,  and 
inwardly  congratulated  himself  on  his  fortunate  escape  from  a  duck 
ing.  Alas  !  for  the  imaginary  security  of  frail  mortality.  The  first 
blast  of  the  storm  brought  his  tent  around  his  ears,  completely  bury 
ing  him  beneath  its  ample  folds,  from  which,  after  various  struggles 
and  contortions,  he  emerged,  a  veritable  water-fowl.  The  commissary 
sergeant  fared  little  better ;  with  naked  feet  and  bared  shoulders,  and 
long  hair  streaming  in  the  air,  he  emerged  from  his  reeling  tent,  like 
a  veritable  spirit  of  the  storm.  The  fly  blew  loose,  the  tent-pins 
pulled  up.  Ably  assisted  by  aid  within,  he  convulsively  clutched  a 
corner  rope  of  the  fly,  braced  his  feet  in  the  sandy  soil,  and  held  on 
with  the  energy  of  despair.  Finally  releasing  his  hold,  with  axe  in 


34:2  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

hand,  he  flitted  around  the  tent  here,  there,  everywhere,  driving 
down  pins,  tightening  the  loosened  cords,  etc.  He  saved  his  tent, 
but  received  a  complete  baptizing  from  the  cold,  chilling  northern 
storm.  Such  are  some  of  the  incidents  of  this  stormy  November 
day.  Cries  and  shouts  of  all  kinds  helped  to  fill  up  the  measure  of 
the  confusion  worse  confounded.  ''  Hoop  1  hoop  !  hurrah  I"  "  Bring 
on  your  whisky."  "  Here's  your  mule  I"  "  Quarter  less  twain." 
"  Knee  deep — no  bottom  !  "  "  Farewell,  my  sheltering  snow-bird ;  fare 
ye  well  forever."  "  Hoorah  !  Doc.,  got  plenty  of  diluted  medicines 
for  the  ailing  of  humanity  ?"  a  Just  a-going,  a-going ;  how  much  for 
a  tent,  gentlemen  ?  Just  a-going — gone,  by  Jupiter  !"  Language,  how 
ever,  fails  to  do  justice  to  such  a  scene.  On  all  sides  there  is  fun  and 
laughter  at  the  haps  and  mishaps,  and  scarcely  a  single  word  of  com 
plaint,  such  is  the  stoical  indifference  with  which  such  casualties  are 
met  by  the  soldier.  The  more  fortunate,  dry  and  comfortably  shel 
tered,  find  an  inexhaustible  fund  of  merriment  in  the  mishaps  of  their 
comrades,  and  enjoy  their  unenviable  condition  in  many  sly  jokes 
and  witticisms  which  are  received  as  given  with  great  humor. 

"  HEBE'S  YOUR  HONEY." 

'  Twas  one  of  those  beautiful  autumnal  days  when  a  quiet  hush 
seems  to  pervade  all  nature ;  the  sun  looked  down  bright  and 
golden  from  the  deep  azure  sky ;  the  air,  balmy  and  pleasant,  dis 
turbed  not  a  whispering  leaf  on  the  autumnal-clothed  trees ;  even 
camp,  so  usually  the  scene  of  constant  activity  and  bustle,  was 
almost  death-like  in  its  quietude.  The  sun  was  sinking  to  its  repose 
in  the  west,  casting  long  shadows  athwart  the  earth,  when  a  strange 
life  and  activity  arose  in  camp.  The  men  emerged  from  their  tents 
like  a  nest  of  hornets  aroused  by  some  invader  of  their  domains, 
all  attracted  towards  a  central  point,  which  seemed  a  seething 
volcano  of  cries,  rude  jokes,  a  laughter  high  above  all,  where  there 
arose  the  cry  of  "  Here's  your  honey."  "We  followed  the  bent  of  a 
natural  curiosity,  and  soon  discovered  the  cause  of  the  uproar  to 
be  a  u  little  old  man,"  with  a  cap  on  his  head  and  stick  in  hand, 
under  the  escort  of  one  of  the  valiant  captains  of  the  regiment, 
earnestly  and  eagerly  searching  the  camp  for  some  stolen  honey.  As 
he  proceeded  from  tent  to  tent,  ransacking  old  boxes,  pulling  nicely- 
arranged  beds  into  heaps  of  disorder,  the  uproar  and  crowd  increased. 
Unmercifully  they  made  the  intruder  the  subject  of  witticisms  and 
sly  jokes,  making  honey  the  theme  of  it  all,  until  he  could  stand 
the  assault  no  longer.  Turning  upon  his  persecutors  with  a  lu 
gubrious  expression  of  features,  laughable  to  behold,  and  raising 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  343 

his  stick  aloft,  lie  exclaimed :  u  Gentlemen,  some  one  took  a  basket 
containing  three  bottles  of  honey  from  my  place.  I  care  not  for  the 
honey,  only  give  me  back  my  basket !  Men,  that  basket  belonged 
to  my  brother.  He's  in  the  army,  and  I  hate  to  lose  it.  Give  me 
my  basket."  "  No  you  don't,  old  fel,"  said  a  voice ;  "  you  want 
some  one  to  bring  back  the  basket  and  then  take  him  up  for  steal 
ing  your  honey.  No  yer  don't.  'Lasses  is  sweet,  but  honey  am 
sweeter." 

Stooping  to  enter  a  tent,  he  was  assaulted  by  a  full  dose  of  flour 
from  the  mischievous  occupant.  As  he  suddenly  emerged,  sputter 
ing  and  blowing  the  white  powder  from  mouth  and  nostrils,  a  serio 
comic  spectacle,  a  new  uproar  greeted  him.  "  Take  him  out,"  said 
one  ;  u  hunting  honey  is  a  pretence  ;  he  is  trying  to  steal  some  one's 
flour."  Thus  this  seeker  after  lost  sweetness  was  assailed  on  all 
sides  with  a  thousand  absurd  suggestions  how  to  find  his  honey, 
until,  almost  crazed,  he  fled  from  the  camp,  followed,  as  long  as 
visible,  by  the  loud  vociferations  of  the  men,  "  Here's  your  honey." 

OUR  QUARTERS. 

We  have  read  descriptions  of  palaces,  with  their  marble  colonnades, 
tesselated  floors,  ceilings  frescoed  and  embellished  with  carved  and 
curious  figures,  adorned,  ornamented  and  furnished  with  all  the 
richness  and  elegance  which  art  and  genius  could  devise,  or  the  skill 
of  man  produce ;  yet  no  such  picture  intrudes  its  glare  and  glitter 
upon  us  this  cold,  wintry  day.  The  heart,  wearied  with  long  years 
of  suffering,  danger  and  hardship,  amid  the  stirring  and  eventful 
scenes  of  our  struggle  for  national  independence,  naturally  turns  to 
an  humbler  scene,  with  its  fond  associations.  "  Home,  sweet  home," 
is  a  theme  which  melts  the  heart  of  the  sternest  of  our  scarred  veter 
ans.  Many  times  have  we  seen  the  tears  steal  down  the  bronzed 
cheeks  of  those  who  have  passed  unmoved  amid  the  horrors  of  the 
battle-field,  as  the  strains  of  this  cherished  refrain  came  from  some 
saddened  heart,  gushing  its  melody  from  a  sweet-toned  voice  or  in 
strument.  We  remember  the  cottage  home  embowered  in  trees, 
with  the  rose  and  honeysuckle  clambering  over  the  trellis  at  the 
ends  of  the  porch,  and  the  jessamine,  with  its  sweet-scented  flowers, 
perfuming  all  the  summer  air.  We  remember,  too,  with  intense 
yearning,  the  social  family  gathering  in  the  evening,  the  fondly- 
loved  sister  and  brothers,  the  adored  mother  and  revered  father, 
now  exiled  from  that  cottage  home,  or  battling  in  the  ranks  of  our 
country's  patriots.  Ah !  how  these  memories  throng  to  the  mind 
and  bring  forth  long-dormant  reminiscences  of  the  past !  But  what 


34:4  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

have  these  thoughts  to  do  with  "  Our  Quarters  2"  Nothing,  dear 
reader,  save  as  a  reverie  of  camp-life. 

The  winter  wind  is  whispering  a  sighing  requiem  through  the 
pine-boughs  which  form  a  shelter  near  my  present  home.  Its  breath 
is  sharp  and  biting.  What  matters  ?  Does  not  a  tent,  with  its 
canvas  roof,  and  its  sides  closely  pinned  and  sodded  down,  keep 
old  Boreas  at  bay  ?  Moreover,  there  is  a  comfortable  fireplace  at  one 
end,  with  its  mud  chimney  outside,  where  the  fire  crackles  and  the 
ruddy  flame  leaps  joyfully  upward,  as  if  defying  all  old  Winter's 
fierce  attacks.  We  sit  (my  companions  and  self,  I  mean,)  around 
this  cozy  fire,  and  laugh  and  chat  awray  the  laggard  hours  as  if  stern 
war  was  not  a  bitter  reality,  and  life  had  no  aim  save  the  enjoyment 
of  its  flitting  hours.  Soldiers  are  proverbial  for  their  light-hearted- 
ness  and  reckless  joviality  under  the  most  trying  circumstances. 
The  tent-poles  at  either  end  are  ornamented  with  knapsacks,  the 
relics  of  many  campaigns  and  long  marches,  while  from  a  pole, 
which  is  swinging  overhead,  hangs  our  scanty  wardrobe  of  soiled, 
tattered,  and  threadbare  garments.  On  one  side  of  the  tent  is  a 
broad  bed,  tastefully  made  up,  with,  perhaps,  knapsacks  or  some 
bundles  for  pillows.  At  its  head  is  a  shelf,  upon  which  is  ranged 
our  tinware  and  cutlery,  a  small  box  of  sugar  and  ajar  of  molasses; 
at  its  foot  is  a  table,  on  which  is  a  portfolio  containing  the  treasures 
and  wnting  materials  of  "  Beta  Omega,"  an  inkstand,  brushes, 
combs,  rules,  box  of  tacks,  books  in  the  shape  of  a  history  of  the 
French  Revolution,  Hardee's  Tactics  and  a  Bible,  an  old  tin  cup  full 
of  corn-meal,  with  a  piece  of  candle  rising  from  its  midst,  and  a  simple 
camp  candlestick  ;  on  the  opposite  side  is  a  single  bedstead,  minus 
an  occupant,  a  barrel  of  meal,  saddle  and  bridle.  Under  each  bed 
can  be  found  mess-boxes  containing  our  daily  sustenance,  old  boots 
and  shoes,  a  bag  of  potatoes,  skillets  and  pots  for  cooking,  tin  pans, 
etc.  The  floor  is  covered  with  boards,  making  it  appear  neat  and 
comfortable,  almost  home-like  ;  several  stools  are  scattered  about  in 
negligent  disorder,  while,  to  finish  the  picture,  a  small  black  and 
somewhat  savage  and  decidedly  ugly  terrier  is  playing  about  the 
floor,  or  lazily  sleeping  before  the  fire. 

Such  is  the  picture  of  our  quarters  this  windy  winter's  day,  where 
we  pass  our  idle  hours,  regardless  of  sunshine  or  storm,  contentedly 
smoking  our  pipes,  or  discussing  the  latest  news  items.  A  soldier's 
tent  is  parlor,  kitchen  and  bedroom,  and  contains  within  its  small 
and  circumscribed  limits  all  the  conveniences  of  his  existence.  How 
seldom  do  we  imagine  what  man  can  endure  and  still  continue  hope 
ful,  healthy  and  joyous !  Such  is  a  soldier's  life. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  345 

OUR   NOBLE   WOMEN. 

No  published  record  or  portion  of  the  history  of  the  war  could 
possibly  be  complete  without  some  tribute  to  the  fair  ladies  of  our 
land.  The  gallant  men  of  the  Third  Regiment  have  cause  to  re 
member  them  on  innumerable  occasions. 

President  Davis,  in  one  of  his  appeals  to  the  people  of  the  Con 
federate  States,  closes  with  these  sentiments :  u  I  conjure  my  country 
women — the  wives,  mothers,  sisters  and  daughters  of  the  Confeder 
acy — to  use  their  all-powerful  influence  in  aid  of  this  call ;  to  add 
one  crowning  sacrifice  to  those  which  their  patriotism  has  so  freely 
and  constantly  offered  on  their  country's  altar ;  and  take  care  no  one 
who  owes  service  in  the  field  be  sheltered  at  home  from  the  disgrace 
of  having  deserted  their  duty  to  their  families,  to  their  country,  and 
to  their  God." 

In  these  days  of  civilization  and  Christian  enlightenment,  woman's 
influence  is  not  only  acknowledged,  but  properly  appreciated,  by 
man — not  only  in  the  quiet  home-circle,  but  as  also  bearing  upon 
the  d"estinies  of  nations.  The  above  appeal  from  the  model  states 
man,  the  chief  executive  of  the  infant  Confederacy,  is  a  most  glorious* 
tribute  to  the  influence  of  our  fair  women.  What  a  record  for  the 
pages  of  its  history  !  President  Davis  acknowledged  it  as  control 
ling  the  destiny  of  a  convulsed  people,  even  as  it  moulds,  forms 
man's  individual  character  and  aspirations.  Truly  woman's  influ 
ence  over  the  destiny  of  a  nation  was  never  more  earnestly  pro 
claimed,  or  sincerely  acknowledged  and  felt,  than  during  the  late 
struggle. 

As  the  thirsty  and  tired  wayfarer  gains  renewed  strength  and 
freshness  at  the  fountain  where  the  cool  and  glistening  waters, 
with  their  diamond  spray,  form  rainbow  hues  in  the  sparkling  sun 
light,  so  man  draws  new  hope,  inspiration  and  vigor  from  woman's 
encouraging  smile,  and  gentle,  loving  words.  From  time  immemo 
rial — when  Mary  watched  before  the  tomb  of  a  Divine  Saviour ; 
through  the  stormy  scenes  of  the  ancient  republics ;  in  the  midst 
of  the  exciting  events  of  the  Crusade ;  through  every  great  era  in 
the  world's  changing  history,  down  to  the  late  eventful  struggle — 
women  have  occupied  prominent  positions  where  works  of  love, 
kindness  and  tenderness  were  to  be  performed,  or  sacrifices  made 
for  the  weal  of  mankind.  Steadfast  has  she  ever  proven  herself  in 
hours  of  danger  and  toil,  ever  ready  to  meet,  with  heroic  fortitude 
and  cheerful  hope,  the  rough  storms  of  life,  and,  with  cheering  words 
of  encouragement,  rouse  the  desponding  spirit  of  man's  stronger, 
15* 


346  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

yet  frequently  less  hopeful,  nature.  Hers  has  been  a  proud  station 
in  the  midst  of  the  late  revolution — sending  forth  the  loved  and  dear 
ones  of  her  household  to  meet  the  ruthless  invader ;  laying  these 
precious  jewels  on  the  altar  of  her  country ;  hiding  the  torn  and 
bleeding  tendrils  of  her  affections  by  unwearying  labors  for  the 
welfare  and  comfort  of  the  absent  one;  enduring  privations  at 
home  little  dreamed  of;  with  words  of  hope  and  encouragement 
for  the  desponding,  sometimes  despairing  soldiers ;  waiting  and 
watching  by  the  wayside  and  public  thoroughfares  with  comforts 
for  the  sick  and  wounded  as  they  were  sent  from  the  scene  of  active 
strife ;  visiting  hospitals ;  giving  aid  and  necessaries  to  captive 
friends  amid  insolent  foes ;  facing  the  horrors  of  the  battle-field  ; 
ever  on  her  mission  of  love  and  mercy  within  the  walls  of  besieged 
cities ;  at  home,  abroad,  everywhere  exhibiting  a  devotion  and  un 
wavering  constancy  for  the  country's  good,  which  should  have 
caused  a  blush  of  shame  to  mantle  the  cheeks  of  many  who  called 
themselves  men — men,  forsooth,  who,  with  aslien  lips  and  trembling 
knees,  prated  of  the  dangers  they  dared  not  encounter. 

Oh  !  glorious  the  record  of  the  noble  women  of  the  Sunny  South  ! 
Not  a  Southern  soldier  but  has  cause  to  remember  tliee.  The  recol 
lection  of  thy  deeds  of  love,  thy  gentle  words  of  hope,  strengthened 
anew  their  brave  hearts  and  strong  arms  to  strike  new  blows  in  thy 
defence. 

The  image  of  some  bright  face,  the  music-tones  of  some  voice  in  a 
far-distant  home,  implanted  in  the  Southron's  heart  a  new  aspiration 
for  deeds  of  daring  and  valor,  with  an  influence  beyond  the  power 
of  expression.  Southern  chivalry  is  gathering  up  the  broken  frag 
ments  of  the  temple  of  their  perished  hope,  and  will  yet  erect  a  mau 
soleum  glorious  and  beautiful,  with  its  colonnades,  dome  and  arch. 
It  will  be  the  Mecca  which  they  will  come  to  worship.  Inscribed  on 
its  highest  pinnacle,  in  letters  of  living  light,  shall  be  thy  names, 
oh  !  daughters  of  the  South  !  proclaiming  to  the  world  thy  sacrifices 
buried  'neath  this  glorious  edifice,  the  shadow  of  that  more  beauti 
ful  temple,  for  which  thy  sons,  fathers,  husbands  and  brothers  so 
fearfully  toiled,  so  lavishly  and  freely  sacrificed  and  poured  out  their 
lives,  treasure  and  blood. 

Amid  the  overshadowing  gloom  of  the  country's  peril,  thy  all- 
powerful  aid  was  invoked  to  illume,  with  its  bright  influence,  its 
dark  hours ;  to  strengthen  its  weakness,  and  bring  success  out  of 
disaster.  Nobly  was  it  answered,  but  all  in  vain.  What  a  glorious 
mission  was  thine !  Gentle  woman  !  the  bulwark  of  a  nation's  success, 
a  nation's  freedom !  Worthy  art  thou  of  our  smiling  skies,  the 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  34:7 

South' s  broad  and  fertile  valleys,  its  beautiful  mountain  scenery  and 
great  streams !  Heroic  women,  worthy  daughters  of  a  land  of  flow 
ers,  sunshine  and  brave  men.  How  her  sons  worship  at  the  shrine 
of  thy  beauty  and  worth,  and  proudly  proclaim  thy  heroic  deeds  of 
self-sacrificing  devotion,  when  no  light  gleamed  through  the  jagged 
clouds  of  war,  as  the  storm  swept  over  the  land  like  a  besom  of  de 
struction  1 

All-glorious,  all-radiant  are  these  records ;  worthy  the  poet's  sweet 
est  strain,  the  painter's  most  beautiful  conception,  the  musician's 
most  glorious  symphony,  the  orator's  loftiest  nights  of  eloquence, 
the  historian's  most  brilliant  records,  every  Southerner's  deepest 
homage  and  love. 

UNMARKED  GRAVES. 

DEDICATED   TO   THE   WOMEN   OF   THE   SOUTH. 
I. 

Bring  flowers,  sweet  flowers,  from  the  South's  sunny  plain  ; 
Plant  their  rich  beauty  o'er  the  graves  of  the  slain — 
Let  their  fragrance  so  pure,  like  incense  of  old, 
Perfume  the  soft  air,  as  some  censer  of  gold, 
Swung  to  and  fro  in  cathedral  dim  and  lofty, 
Where  strains  of  rich  music  floating  out  softly, 
Fill  the  soul  with  emotions  so  calm  and  so  deep, 
Where  worshipers  kneel  in  adoration  so  sweet. 

ii. 

Let  Beauty's  soft  tears,  like  the  dews  of  the  night, 
Or  the  diamond's  bright  rays,  reflecting  the  light, 
Fall  on  these  lonely  graves  ;  love's  tokens  so  pure. 
Which  memory  green  keeps,  while  Time  shall  endure. 
While  Fame  shall  proclaim,  with  his  deep,  brazen  voice,      • 
Names  of  heroes,  who,  in  the  land  of  their  choice, 
Fell  in  the  strife  on  the  field  of  their  glory — 
Their  lives  an  oifering  to  song  and  to  story. 

in. 

In  hearts  true  and  tender,  monuments  shall  stand, 
More  polished  in  beauty  than  aught  in  the  land ; 
Than  e'er  Greek  Demetrius,  with  his  skill  wondrous, 
Chiseled  from  marble  so  rough  and  so  pond'rous. 


348  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Monuments  pure  and  rare,  deep  watered  with  tears, 
Time  cannot  destroy  with  the  long  lapse  of  years ; 
Or  memory  true  from  its  tablets  efface 
A  glory  and  beauty  in  patriot  blood  traced. 

IV. 

Laid  'neath  the  droop  of  the  lone  weeping  willows, 
Laid  where  the  surge  of  the  ocean's  dark  billows 
Thunder  their  requiem  on  the  bright  sanded  shore, 
Nature's  fit  anthem  of  mystical  power. 
Unmarked  graves,  in  shadowy  vale  and  dense  wood, 
Where,  fiercely  fighting,  patriot  soldiers  once  stood, 
Ling'ring  falls  the  light  on  each  emerald  mound, 
With  a  halo  of  Beauty,  golden,  profound. 
NatcMtoches,  Louisiana,  January  24£/i,  1865. 

THE"  PERSONNEL  "  OF  THE  REGIMENT  AND  HOW  THEY  ACCEPT  THE 
"  SITUATION." 

In  events  of  unusually  startling  nature,  the  mind  naturally  inves 
tigates  causes,  reasoning  from  these  to  the  effect  produced.  Thus 
in  reading  the  history  of  this  gallant  organization,  the  peruser  in 
quires,  "  Who  and  what  were  these  men  ? "  Let  us  answer.  The 
members  of  the  Third  Louisiana  Infantry  were  principally  men  of 
high  social  standing  at  home  ;  intelligent,  refined,  young,  the  fires  of 
youth  glowing  in  their  stalwart  forms.  Voluntarily  offering  their 
services  to  their  country,  they  were  actuated  by  a  firm  conviction  of 
the  justice  of  their  cause.  From  workshop  and  counter,  fromc  ottage 
and  mansion,  from  the  lordly  plantation  and  the  crowded  city,  they 
came,  standing  side  by  side  in  defence  of  a  common  cause.  Look  at 
them;  the  fire  of  a  fixed  determination  glowing  in  their  clear, 
bright  eyes,  the  strength  of  a  settled  purpose  evinced  in  their  firm 
tread  and  upright  carriage. 

No  wonder  that  they  distinguished  themselves  on  the  battle-field, 
covering  themselves  with  an  imperishable  glory.  There  is  not  to 
day  a  man  living  who  ever  doubted  the  courage  and  gallantry  of  the 
whole  regiment.  Thus  they  fought  through  the  stirring  scenes  of 
the  whole  war,  and  when  the  inevitable  decrees  of  fate  decided 
against  them,  they  accepted  the  issue  as  brave  men  only  could. 

If  they  were  gallant  soldiers,  now  are  they  good  citizens,  and  can 
be  implicitly  trusted  in  their  fealty  to  the  Government.  They  feel 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  349 

that  they  have  been  overpowered,  and  accept  the  situation  as  brave 
and  honorable  men.  Such  men  as  the  Gourriers  C.  D.  Craighead,  F. 
Roth  and  brother,  Landry  and  brother,  William  Johnson,  Pierre 
Richard,  Alexander  Hebert,  C.  Nicholls,  H.  Le  Blanc  and  brother, 
J.  Richard,  A.  Jolly,  N.  Gayard,  H.  Guidici,  P.  Slaven,  M.  Coughlan, 
K  Richard,  and  many  others  of  Iberville ;  Major  W.  F.  Tunnard, 
F.  D.  Tunnard,  Bentons,  Waddell,  Gentles,  Bells,  Jolly,  Booth,  Alex 
ander,  Aldrich,  Hardy,  Heroman,  Knox,  Hackett,  etc.,  of  Baton 
Rouge;  Brighams,  Washburn,  Davenport,  Evans,  Hinson,  Whit- 
stone,  Holt,  Brashear,  Harris,  Carters,  Quipin,  etc.,  of  Morehouse ; 
Hyams,  Breazeales,  Blair,  Russells,  Walmsleys,  Airey,  Morse,  Espy, 
Levasson.  Trichels,  Butler,  Prudhommes,  Derbonne,  Bossiers,  Charle- 
villis,  Cloutiers,  Hallers,  Murphy,  Norris,  etc.,  of  Natchitoches ; 
Lacy,  Wells,  Kinney,  Gilmore,  Kendall,  Robson,  Clark,  Cole,  Effner, 
etc.,  of  Shreveport ;  Pierson,  Emanuel,  Middlebrook,  etc.,  of  Winn ; 
Hedricks,  Richards,  Guy,  Young,  Tompkins,  Currie,  Page,  Bradley, 
Eddins,  etc.,  of  Carroll;  Gunnells,  Evans,  Humbles,  Broadway, 
Smith,  Moffits,  Fluetts,  Dunns,  Hannas,  Cottinghams,  Grays,  John 
sons,  Killeys,  Masons,  McFarlands,  Merediths,  Moss,  Sandridge,  etc., 
of  Caldwell,  are  considered  the  most  trustworthy  of  citizens.  Yet 
were  they  the  first  to  answer  to  the  bugle-call.  These  are  all  true  men. 
In  financial  and  commercial  circles,  in  workshops,  at  the  bench  and 
counter  and  in  the  fields,  are  they  striving  to  rebuild  their  fallen  for 
tunes,  striving  to  regain  the  loss  inflicted  by  war.  They  are  neither 
despondent  nor  despairing,  but  work  with  alacrity  and  cheerfulness 
to  repair  the  many  ravages  of  the  conflict.  Such  are  the  positions 
of  men  who  gave  fortunes,  staked  their  liveson  the  issue  of  war. 
The  heroism  displayed  in  accepting  their  defeat  is  not  less  praise 
worthy  than  their  undaunted  bearing  in  the  deadly  battle-field. 


0f 


THE  following  rolls  of  the  Companies  composing  the  3d  Regiment 
La.  Infantry  are  necessarily  incomplete,  being  compiled  from  notes, 
without  the  aid  of  any  official  documents.  All  the  records  of  the 
Regiment  were  destroyed  ;  first,  when  Vicksburg  was  surrendered, 
and  again  when  the  army  was  finally  disbanded.  This  statement  is 
considered  necessary,  in  order  that  no  complaints  may  be  made  for 
any  errors  which  may  occur  in  these  lists  : 

ROLL  OF  COMPANY  A,  IBEEVILLE  GREYS. 

Captain  Charles  A.  Brusle.     Wounded,  Vicksburgh,  May,  1863. 
Pritchard,  J.  A.,  1st  Lieutenant.     Resigned,  May  3d,  1861. 
Brown,  T.  C.,  2d  Lieutenant.      Promoted  May  3rd.  Resigned,  June, 

1861. 
Verbois,  T.  R.,  3d  Junior  Lieutenant.     Promoted  3d  Lieutenant, 

June,  1861.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861. 
Goodwin,  F.  W.,  1st  Sergeant. 
Ramoin,  J.  B.,  2d   Sergeant.      Elected  2d  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862. 

Killed  at  luka,  September,  19,  1862. 
Babin,  U.,  3rd   Sergeant.      Elected   1st  Lieutenant,  May   8,    1862. 

Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Chastant,  J.  M.,  4th  Sergeant.     Killed  at  Vicksburg,  June  22,  1863. 
Terrel  0.,  1st  Corporal. 
Bevin,  O.,  2nd  Corporal. 

Browne,  II.  S.,  3rd  Corporal.     Discharged,  N".  O.,  May  3,  1861. 
Arceheaux,  E.  A.,  4th  Corporal.     Discharged,  N.  0.,  May  3,  1861. 
Arceneau,  M.,  Private. 

Allain,  S.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  May  31,  1863. 
Amoin,  T.,  Private. 

Allsbach,  J.,  Private.     Discharged,  Sept.,  1861. 
Aucoin,  S.,  Private.     Discharged,  June  28th,  1861. 
Brawn,  C.  H.,  Private. 
Breand,  S.,  Private.     Discharged,  1861. 
Breaux,  J.  H.,  Private.    Died  of  wounds,  Vicksburg,  June  25,  1863. 


354  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

Bridges,  D.  F.,  Private.     Killed  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 
Boissac,  E.  M.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  June  6, 1863. 
Broussard,  M.,  Private.     Wounded  at  luka,  and  died   at  Jackson, 

Miss.,  Sept.,  1862 
Blanchard,  K,  Private. 

Blanchard,  L.  D.,  Private.    Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  May  19,  1863. 
Babin,  A.,  Private.     Discharged,  N.  0.,  May  3,  1861. 
Bellfield,  E.  C.,  Private. 
Barlow,  E.  D.,  Private. 

Beard,  N.  Private.   Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861. 
Bell,  J.,  Private. 

Berry  B.,  Private.     Died  of  wounds,  Vicksburg,  June  26,  1863. 
Breaux,  E.  L.,  Private.     Wounded  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 
Crowell,  James,  Private. 
Croughlan,  M.,  Private.     Discharged,  1861.  Wounded  at  Oak  Hills, 

August  10,  1861. 

Connor,  James,  Private.    Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  June  6,  1863. 
Craighead,  C.  D.,  Private. 

Davis,  S.  D.,  Private.     Killed  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 
Dupuy,  C.,  Private.     Killed  at  Vicksburg,  June  22,  1863. 
Dennis,  J.,  Private. 
Ellis,  J.  A.,  Private. 
Guidici,   H.   E.,   Private.       Appointed   Sergeant,   February,  1862. 

Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  May  29,  1863. 
Gayard,  N.,  Private.     Wounded  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 
Gourrier,  E.  Private.      Elected  2d  Junior    Lieutenant,  Ft.   Smith, 

June,  1861. 
Gourrier,  E.,  Private.     Elected  2d  Junior  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862, 

at  Corinth.     Wounded  at  luka. 
Gourrier  S.,  Private.    Killed  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 
Gleason,  P.,  Private.     Died  at  Jackson,  Miss. 
Hebert,  J.  L.,  Private. 

Ilebert,  V.  A.,  Private.     Appointed  Orderly  to  General  L.  Hebert. 
Hebert,  Alexander  O.,  Private. 

Ilebert  Amidi,  Private.     Killed  at  Vicksburg,  June  25,  1863. 
Ilebert,  G.  S.,  Private.     Appointed  Assistant-Surgeon. 
Hersch,  B.,  Private.     Killed  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 
Hall,  W.,  Private. 
Johnson,  W.,  Private. 
Johns,  A.  J.,  Private. 
Johns,  W.  H.,  Private. 
Joly,  A.  J.,  Private.    Wounded  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  355 

Kahn,  S.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  June  23,  1863. 
Kenney,  John,  Private.     Elected  Captain,  May  8,  1862.     Wounded 

at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862.     Killed  at  Vicksburg,  July  1,  1863. 
Le  Blanc,  E.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills.  Killed  accidentally, 

Aug.,  1861. 
Le  Blanc,  H.,  Private. 

Leonard.,  F.,  Private.     Killed  at  Yicksburg,  May  19,  1863. 
Landry,  M.,  Private.     Wounded  at  luka. 
Landry,  J   A.,    Private.       Appointed  Brigade  Quartermaster,  2   M. 

at  •  Tupelo,  Miss.,  1862. 
Le  Blanc,  M.,  Private. 
Lanoux,  F.,  Private.     Discharged,  1861. 

McManus,  J.,  Private.    Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  Aug.  16,  1861. 
McGueri,  Private. 
Macready,  J.,  Private.  . 

McGinnis,  W.  B.,  Private.   Wounded  at  Vicksburgh,  June  14,  1863. 
Mintor,  N.,  Private. 
Nichols,  C.,  Private. 
Norton,  C.,  Private. 
O'Brien,  M.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburgh. 

Nicholas ,  Private 

Pruett,  C.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  May  22,  1863. 

Poison,  W.  H.,  Private. 

Richard,  B.,  Private.     Appointed  Sergeant,  Feb.,  1862. 

Richard,  N.,  Private.     Discharged,  1861. 

Richard,  J.,  Private.     Taken  prisoner  at  luka  Sept.  19,  1862. 

Richard,  E.,  Private. 

Roth,  F.,  Private. 

Randolph,    S.  A.,    Private.     Elected    2d    Lieutenant,  May,    1862. 

Killed  at  Vicksburg,  May  23,  1863. 

Schade,  N.,  Private.     Killed  at  Vicksburgh,  May  19,  1863. 
Sanders,  W.,  Private.     Wounded  at  luka,  Miss.,  and  Corinth,  Miss. 
St.  Amant,  B.  T.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  May  22,  1863. 
Slaven,  P.,  Private. 
Scheirer,  J.,  Private. 

Springer, ,  Private.   Elected  2 d  Lieutenant,  May  7th,  1861. 

Terrell,  G.,  Private.     Discharged,  Sept.  1861. 

Terrell,  O.,  Private. 

Verbois,  O.,  Private.     Discharged,    1861. 

Willis,  P.  C.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  June  23,  1863. 

White,  P.,  Private. 

Willhardt  W.,  Private. 


356  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

ROLL  OP  COMPANY  B,  THIRD  LOUISIANA. 

R  M.   S.  Hinson,  Captain.     Killed   August    10th,   1861,    at   Oak 

Hills,  Mo. 
W.  T.  Hall,  1st  Lieutenant.    Resigned  May  1,  1862,  Memphis,  Tenn. 

D.  C.  Morgan,  2d  Lieutenant. 

J.  H.  Brigham,  2  Junior  Lieutenant.  Appointed  Adjutant  of  the 
Regiment,  May  8,  1862,  Corinth,  Miss. 

W.  L.  McMurtry,  1st  Sergeant.  Discharged  April  23,  1862,  Little 
Rock. 

C.  Adamson,  2d  Sergeant.  Discharged  August,  1861,  Maysville, 
Arkansas. 

W.  P.  Douglas,  3d  Sergeant.     Discharged  October  6,  1861. 

J.  W.  Petitt*,  4th  Sergeant.  Died,  September  9,  1861,  at  Spring 
field,  Mo. 

J.  C.  Williams,  5th  Sergeant.  Transferred  July  1,  1861,  Fort 
Smith,  Ark. 

E.  J.  Wright,  1st  Corporal.     Discharged  December  8,  1864,  Winter- 
quarters,  Ark. 

W.  J.  Buford,  2d  Corporal.     Transferred  January  15,  1865,  Shreve- 

port,  La. 

Shelton,  D.,  3d  Corporal. 

Traylor,  W.  P.,  4th  Corporal.     Died   September  19,  1861,  at  Spring 
field,  Mo. 
Alford,  Thomas  R.,  Private.      Killed  May  19,  1863,  at  Vicksburg, 

Miss. 

Armstrong,  P.  D.,  Private. 
Aldridge,  F.  J.,  Private.     Discharged  April  17,  1862,  Little  Rock, 

Arkansas. 

Brown,  T.  J*,  Private.     Died  October  2,  1862,  at  luka,  Miss. 
Briscoe,  James  M.,   Private.      Died  June  3,  1864,    at  Morcliouse 

Parish,  La. 

Boyer ,  Private.     Died  June,  1861,  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

Brice,  John  W.,  Private.     Died  April  12,  1862,  at  Dardanelle,  Ark. 
Beauchamp,  T.  L.,  Private.     Died  May  17,  1862,  at  Corinth,  Miss. 
Blank enship,  John,*  Private.     Died  July,  17,   1863,  at  Morehouse 

Par.,  La. 
Blankenship,  William,  Private.     Remained  east  of  Missouri  River 

after  fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Brigham,   D,    L.,   Private.      Discharged  November,   1861,  Benton 

County,  Ark. 

*  Died  of  wounds. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  357 

Bass,  E.  A.,  Private.    Drowned  September  6,  in  Red  River. 

Bussey,  A.  L.,  Private. 

Buckmaster,  D.,  Private. 

Boatner,  E.  J.,  Private. 

Benk,  James,  Private.     Disabled  at  Vicksburg. 

Collier,  Thomas,  Private.     Discharged  June  6,    1861,   Little  Rock, 
Arkansas. 

Cole,  L.  J.,  Private. 

Cooher,  J.  H.,  Private. 

Cooper,  W.  T.,  Private. 

Cravens,  T.,  Private.     Disabled  at  luka. 

Darwin,  J.,  Private.     Discharged  October  7,  1861,  Maysville,  Ark. 

Davis,  William,   Private.     Discharged  December  8,    1861,  Winter- 
quarters,  Ark. 

Davenport,  Joe,  Private. 

Evans,  E.  M.,  Private.     Discharged  August  9,  1861,  Wilson's  Creek, 
Missouri. 

Evans,  D.  M.,  Private. 

Frazier,  C.,  Private.     Died  April  3,  1862,  at  Van  Buren,  Ark. 

Fenley,  W.  F.,  Private.     Killed  May  22,  1863,  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

Felton,  J.  G.,  Private. 

Fogerty,  James,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 

Hughes,  P.,  Private.     Died  May,  1861,  at  New  Orleans,  La. 

Hewitt,  M.,  Private.     Died  September  13,  1861,  at  Springfield,  Mo. 

Hewitt,  J.  K,  Private.     Killed  May  30,  1863,  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

Higginbotham,  T.  C.,  Private. 

Higginbotham,  J.  N.,  Private.      Died  August  28,  1861,  at  Spring 
field,  Mo. 

Higginbotham,  C.  W.,    Private,      Discharged  June  30,  1861,  Fort 
Smith,  Ark. 

Howell,  W.  H.,  Private.     Killed  June  11,  1863,  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

Howell,  J.  M.,  Private. 

Hubbard,  F.,  Private.     Transferred  February,  1863,  Snyder's  Bluff, 
Miss. 

Harrison,  B.,  Private.     Discharged  July  16th,  1802,  Tupelo,  Miss. 

Henderson,  R.,  Private.     Captured  at  "  Elk   Horn,"  Ark.,  March  8, 
1862.     Refused  exchange. 

Handy,  H.  F.,  Private. 

Hall,  B.,  Private. 

Jones,  John,  Private.       Transferred  June  6,  1861,  Little  Rock,  Ark. 

Jones,  G.  W.,  Private.  Discharged  July  16,  1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 
Gelks,  J.  F.,  Private. 


358  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Kellej,  William,  Private.  Died  August  30,  1861,  at  Springfield, 
Missouri. 

Lee,  John  W.,  Private.     Killed  June  20,  1861,  at  Vicksburg,    Miss. 

Land,  Thomas,  Private.     Discharged  May  30,  1861,  K  Orleans,  La. 

Lawhead,  William,  Private. 

Meaders,  H.,  Private.     Died  October,  1862,  Oakalona,  Miss. 

McCluskey,  Thomas,  Private.  Discharged  October  4,  1862,  Little 
Rock,  Ark, 

McCallaghan,  William,  Private. 

May,  James  C.,  Private.     Killed  June  26,  1863,  at  Vicksburg,    Miss. 

Mclntosh,  W.  B.,  Private.  Discharged  April  18,  1862,  Little  Rock, 
Arkansas. 

McFee,  A.  L.,  Private.  Transferred  March,  1863,  Snyder's  Bluff 
Miss. 

McFee,  Eugene,  Private. 

McGrane,  John,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 

Newton,  J.  B.,  Private.  Died  September  11,  1861,  at  Springfield, 
Missouri. 

Norton,  B.,  Private. 

O'Brien,  Jerry,  Private.  Discharged  April  18,  1862,  Little  Rock, 
Ark. 

Pickett,  D.,  Private. 

Potts,  T.  J.,  Private.  Discharged  September  24,  1861,  Bentonville, 
Ark. 

Quinn,  G.  B.,  Private. 

Ren  wick,  J.  P.,  Private.     Killed  August  10th,  1861,  Oak  Hills,  Mo. 

Renwick,  W.  P.,  Private. 

Risor,  William,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 

Roland, ,  Private.   Transferred  July  20,  1861,  Bentonville,  Ark. 

Raidt,  F.,  Private.     Discharged  August  10,  1862,  Baldwin,  Miss. 

Robard,  G.  W.,  Private.     Discharged  October,  1861. 

Smith,  S.  D.,  Private.     Killed  May  20,  1863,  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

Steward,  James,  Private.  Killed  September  19,  1862,  at  luka, 
Miss. 

Small,  John,  Private.  Discharged  September  8,  1861,  Winter- 
quarters,  Ark. 

Sullivan,  Con,  Private.  Discharged  September  8,  1861,  Winter- 
quarters,  Ark. 

Sharp,  J.  T.,  Private.     Killed  June  25, 1863,  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

Silbernagel,  B.,  Private. 

Saunders,  J.  N.,  Private. 

Sparks,  T.  H.,  Private. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  859 

Sharp,  James  M.,  Private. 

Taylor,  Joseph,  Private.     Killed  August  10,  1861,  at  Oak  Hill,  Mo. 

Tubberville,  A.  H.,  Private.     Discharged  September  10,  1861,  Mays- 

ville,  Ark. 

Turner,  Jospeh,  Private.  Discharged  July  16,  1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 
Vaughan,  G.  B.,  Private. 

Whitley,  J.  B.,  Private.     Died  June,  1861,  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 
Whittaker,  B.  W*,  Private.    Died  September  21, 1862,  at  luka,  Miss. 
Whetstone,  E.  A.,  Private.     Killed  August  10,  1861,  at  Oak  Hills, 

Missouri. 
Williams,  Alexander*,  Private.      Died  July  7,  1863,  at  Vicksburg, 

Miss. 

Webb,  J.  D.,  Private.    Discharged  June  30,  1861,  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 
Webb,  T.,  Private.     Discharged  June  30,  1861,  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 
Wright,  T.  J.,  Private.      Discharged  April  18,   1862,  Little  Rock, 

Arkansas. 

Wilkinson,  Joe,  Private.  Discharged  July  10, 1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 
Williams,  G.  B.,  Private.  Discharged  July  16,  1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 
Wadkins,  James,  Private.  Discharged  July  16, 1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 
Washburn,  W.  M.,  Private. 

Yon,  Joseph,  Private.     Died  August,  1861.  Maysville,  Ark. 
Zimmerle,  R.,  Private.     Discharged  July  10, 1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 
Caldwell,  W.  R.,  Private    Remained  eastf  of  Mississippi  River,  after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Edmonson,  J.  N.,  Private.     Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Edmonson,  M.  Private.  Removed  east  of  Mississippi  River  after  fall 

of  Vicksburg. 
Finn,  Terrence,  Private.     Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Harrison  A,  C.,  Private.     Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Vicksbnrg. 
Kelley,  Henry,  Private.     Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Meyer,  A.,  Private.     Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after  fall 

of  Vicksburg. 
Sheffield,  W.  B.,  Private.    Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 

*  Died  of  wounds. 

t  These  men,  having  homes  or  relatives  east  of  the  Missouri  River,  after  the 
capitulation  of  Vicksburg  remained  in  that  department,  and  were  attached  to 
the  21st  or  22d  La.  Infantry. 


360  A.   SOUTHERN   EECORD. 

Sullivan,  M.  B.,  Private.    Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Yicksburg. 
Stirces,  S.  H.,  Private.      Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River    after 

fall  of  Vickaburg. 
Shumaker,  W.  V.,   Private.     Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River 

after  fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Smith,  James  M.,  Private.     Remained  east  of  the  Mississippi  River 

after  fall  of  Yicksburg. 
Thompson,  J.  A.,  Private.  Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Wilcox,  J,  J.,  Private.     Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Worley,  S.  K,  Private.      Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River  after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 
Walker,  N.  E.,  Private.     Remained  east  of  Mississippi  River   after 

fall  of  Vicksburg. 

All  the  of  above  were  enlisted  into  the  State  Service  at  New 
Orleans,  La.,  May  5th,  1861,  and  transferred  to  the  Confederate 
States  Service  at  New  Orleans,  May  17th,  1861. 

RECRUITS. 

Alford,  G.  W.     Enlisted  February  10,  1863.     Died  at  Ft.  Delaware, 

December,  1863. 
Brice,  W.  H.     Enlisted  July  30,  1861.  Killed,  Vicksburgh,  June  19, 

1863. 

Bosworth,  G.  P.     Enlisted  December  5,  1864. 
Biddle,  H.  "         October  15,  1864. 

Bearden,  B.  C.  "  "       u       " 

Elton,  E.  W.  "       .  August  15,  1863. 

Emswiler,  G.  E.         "        March  17,  1862. 
Evans,  G.  R.  "        May  5,  1862.     Discharged,  Corinth,  Oct. 

17,  1862. 

Fryor,  H.  C.  "        February,  1863.     Lost  a  leg  at  Vicksburg 

Fluelen,  J.  G.  "         September  21,  1864. 

Gray,  T.  T.  "        March  17th,  1862. 

Graves,  P.  S.  "        November  26,  1864. 

Grant,  P.  «         April  10,  1863. 

Howell,F.  M.  "        July  30,  1861.  Killed  at  Vicksburg,  June 

24,  1863. 

Higginbotham,  D.  F.     Enlisted  March  17,  1862. 
Hammonde,  E.  IT.  "         October,  1864. 

Johnson,  T.  H.  "        February  10, 1863. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  361 

Mason,  J.  M.  Enlisted  March  25,  1863  Accidentally  killed  Sep 
tember  24,  1863,  at  Home. 

McFee,  S.  O.  Enlisted  July  30,  1861.  Killed  at  Vicksburg,  June 
16,  1863. 

Maxwell,  J.  D.         "        June  6,  1861. 

Maxwell,  J.  N.         "        October  6,  1861. 

McGuire,  J.  F.        "        January  5,  1865. 

Kaff,  J.  B.  k<  February  10,  1863.  Killed  at  Vicksburg 

June  25,  1663. 

Rlsor,  John.     Elected  May   5,  1862.     Died  at  Grenada,  December 

24. 1862. 

Sharp,  A.  F.  "  5,  1864. 

Saunders,  S.  K  "  February  10,  1663. 

Button,  Jos.  "  October  7,  1864. 

Smith,  J.  W.  "  December  19,  1864. 

Totle  Jacob.  "  February  10,  1863. 

Wright,  W.  W.  "  "        "         " 

White,  G.  B.  "  "        "         "     Died  at  Snyder's  Bluff,  June 

26. 1863. 

W.  N.  Washburn  was  elected  Second  Junior  Lieutenant  some  time 
in  October,  1861,  while  on  the  March  for  Carthage,  Miss.  This 
election  was  ordered  to  fill  the  vacancy  occasioned  by  promotion^ 
after  the  death  of  Captain  Henson.  At  the  time  of  the  reorganiza 
tion  he  was  a  prisoner,  haying  been  captured  at  the  battle  of  Elk 
Horn,  and  consequently  was  not  re-elected.  After  the  death  of 
Lieut.  Beauchamp,  Lieut.  Ren  wick  filled  the  vacancy,  and  Wash- 
burn  was  elected  Second  Junior  Lieutenant. 

ROLL  OF  COMPANY  C,  WINN  RIFLES. 

4 

Pierson,  D.,  Captain.     Wounded  at  luka,  Sept,  19,  1862;  wounded 

at  Vicksburg.     Promoted  to  Lieutenant-Colonel. 
Emanuel,  Asa,  1st  Lieutenant.     Re-elected  May  8th,  1862. 
Lurry,  W.  C.,  2d  Lieutenant. 
Strather,    W.,   2d  Lieutenant,     Wounded  August  10,  1861,  at  Oak 

Hills. 
Middlebrook,  K  M.,  1st  Sergeant.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  August 

10,  1861;  wounded  at .  Vicksburg.     Elected   Captain  May   8th, 

1862. 
McCain,  A.  W.,  2d  Sergeant.     Elected  2d  Lieutenant  May  8,  1802. 

Killed  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Alford,  W.  H.,  3d  Sergeant.     Killed  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Copeland,  J.,  4th  Sergeant. 
16 


362  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

McCain,  J.  M.,  1st  Corporal.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  August  10, 

1861. 
W.  T.  Fagan,  3d  Corporal.      Elected  2d  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862 

Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
C.  F.  M.  Befer,  3d  Corporal. 
J.  Sbolurs.     Died  August  3,  1861. 
Benson,  H.,  Private. 
Brock,  J.,  Private. 
Bird,  L.  G.,  Private. 

Bulger,  W.,  Private.     Died  July,  1861,  at  Camp  McCulloch,  Ark. 
Barnes,  J.  Gr.,  Private. 
Bonnet,  J.  R.,  Private. 
Bonnet,  H.,  Private.     Died  August,  1861. 
Brantley,  B.  0.,  Private. 
Brantley,  G.  D.,  Private. 
Belden,  H.  C.,  Private. 
Black,  B.  F.,  Private. 
Black,  H.,  Private. 
Benson,  F.,  Private. 
Collens,  H.,  Private. 

Collum,  W.,  Private.     Died  June,  1861,  at  Fort  Smith. 
Carson,  W.  J.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Curry,  G.,  Piivate. 

Cole,  R.  E.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Cole,  H.,  Private. 

Carter,  G.  B.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Canady,  O.  F.,  Private. 
Carter,  J.,  Private. 

Crew,  H.  M.,  Private.     Killed  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 
Crew,  J.,  Private.     Died  August  1861. 

Coekerham,  H.,  Private.     Killed  at  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861. 
Campbell,  R.,  Private. 
Coekerham,  W.,  Private. 

Coekerham,  B.,  Private.     Died  June  1861,  at  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 
Calhoun,  I.  G.,  Private. 
Cunningham,  H.  H.,  Private. 

Davison,  W.  F.,  Private.     Died  May  1862,  at  Corinth,  Miss. 
Dun,  Geo.  F.,  Private.     Died  June,  1861,  at  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 
Evans.  J.  M.,  Private. 

Evans,  W.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Furgerson,  W.  J.,  Private. 
Iluthnance,  II.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Corinth,  October  3,  1862. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  363 

Houston,  R.  K.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Ilardee,  B.,  Private. 

Hoduett,  G.  W.,  Private. 

Hallamon,  AV.  A.,  Private.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 

Hicks,  I.  N.,  Private.     Appointed  4th  Corporal,  September  30th, 

1861. 
Howell,  W.  F.,  Private. 

Harlen, ,  Private. 

Holland,  J.  T.,  Private. 

Halston,  M.  R,  Private. 

Inabinett,  A.  J.,  Private. 

Jones,  Jas.  W.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Kelly,  D.,  Private. 

Lockheart,  A.,  Private, 

Livingston,  R.  L.,  Private. 

Leopard,  F.  M.,  Private. 

Lovett,  AV.,  Private. 

Little,  G.  B.  N.,  Private. 

Muirhead,  H.  C.,  Private. 

Muirhead,  Win.,  Private.     Wounded  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Martin,  E.  P.,  Private. 

McBride,  J.  M.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861 ; 

wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
McDonald,  G.  K,  Private. 
Mooney,  E.  W.,  Private. 
McCormick,  J.  N.,  Private. 
Moody,  N.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Means,  B.  H.,  Private. 

Mathis,  John,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Middlebrook,  Wm.,  Private.     Elected  2d  Junior  Lieutenant  at  Sny- 

der's  Mills,  Miss.,  1863. 
Mckolson,  J.,  Private, 

Newman,  A.  H.,  Private.  Taken  prisoner  at  Corinth,  October  3, 1862. 
Nox,  Geo.,  Private. 
Oglesby,  J.,  Private. 
Oglesby,  M.,  Private. 

Phillpot,  B.  F.,  Private.     Killed  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 
Phillpot,  G.  W.,  Private.     Died  at  Mt.  Vernon,  Mo. 
Pierson,  John  H.,  Private. 
Pierson,  Jas.,  Private. 
Pearre,  A.  J.,  Private.     Wounded  at  luka,  September  19,  1862  ; 

wounded  at  Corinth,  Miss.,  October  4,  1862. 


364  A  SOUTHERN  EECOED. 

Powers,  H.  C.,  Private. 

Eitch,  Win.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Rudd,  J.  D.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Smith,  W.  R.,  Private.     Killed  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

Smith,  Jas.,  Private. 

Spillman,  G.  C.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Thompson,  V.  B.,  Private. 

Teagle,  John,  Private.     Died  July,  1861,  at  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 

Teddlie,  T.  J.,  Private.     Killed  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

Teddlie,  W.  J.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Tannyhill,  D.  M.,  Private. 

Tannyhill,  W.,  Private. 

Williams,  Thos.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Webb,  J.  D.,  Private. 

Webb,  J.  C.,  Private. 

Winner,  M.,  Private. 

Wilson,  J.,  Private. 

Warner,  J.  D.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861. 

ROLL  OF  Co.  "  D,"  PELICAN  RANGERS,  No.  1. 

Blair,  J.  D.,  Captain.     Resigned,  1861. 

Russell,  S.  D.,  1st  Lieutenant.  Elected  Major,  May  8,  1862.  Pro 
moted  to  Colonel.  Wounded  at  Corinth  and  Vicksburg. 

Russell,  W.  E.,  2d  Lieutenant.  Elected  Captain,  May  8,  1862. 
Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Hyams,  S.  M.,  Jr.,  3d  Lieutenant.  Elected  Lieutenant-Colonel  of 
Cavalry  Regiment. 

Morse,  B.  P.,  First  Sergeant.  Elected  2d  Lieutenant,  May  8, 1862. 
Wounded  at  Corinth. 

Walmsley,  H.  B.,  2d  Sergeant. 

Airey,  F.  W.,  3d  Sergeant.  Appointed  Sergeant -Major.  Elected 
Captain  of  Louisiana  Regiment.  Afterwards  A.  A.  GK,  Hay's 
Staff. 

Peters,  J.  H.,  4th  Sergeant. 

Charleville,  J.,  1st  Corporal.    Wounded  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Grove  D.,  2d  Corporal.     Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 

De  Russey,  W.  A.,  3d  Corporal. 

Peters,  J.  H.,  4th  Corporal. 

Blackstone,  M.  P.,  Private. 

Bowling,  W.  T.,  " 

Barksdale,  A.  H.,          " 

Badt,  W.,  "        Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 


THIRD    LOUISIANA   INFANTRY. 


365 


Bastick,   W.    R.,    Private. 
Bassett,  M.  C.,  " 

Carrell,  J.  K,  " 

Chambers,  J.,  " 

Cohn,  M.,  " 

Collins,  W.  M.,  " 

Cobb,  T.,  " 

Creigbton,  W.  B., 
Caradine,  I. 
Duke,  II.  J., 
Dodson,  "W.  W. 
Davenport,  J.  A., 
Davis,  W.  P., 
Davis,  B., 
Daly,  T., 
Evans,  D.  N., 
Ely,  V, 

Edmonson,  H.  V.  C., 
Fonteneau,  G., 
Fox,  G.  W., 
Grillett,  S., 
Goodwin,  J., 
Gandy,  W.  W., 
Gallion,  E., 
Ililburn,  W.  H., 
Hammet,  R.  C., 
Ivy,  W.  W. 
Jackson,  C.  H., 
Kimball,  A.  J., 
Ilutchinski,  "W., 
Levasseur,  E.  B., 
Leplant,  O., 
Leplant,  A., 
Masley,  J.  M., 
Masson,  E., 
Mattingly,  G., 
McCaskey,  T.  H., 
McDowell,  L.  B., 
Matthews,  T.  J., 
McCarty,  J., 
McDaniel,  J.  A., 
McDaniel,  H., 


Killed  at  Vicksburg. 

Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 


Wounded  at  Oak  Hills  Aug.  10,  1861. 
"          "   luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 


Killed  at  Yicksburg. 
Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Killed  at  Vicksburg. 


Killed  at  Vicksburg. 
Wounded  at  luka. 


Died  of  wounds  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 


Wounded  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 


Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 


366 


A.  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 


McKerley,    J., 
McMahon,  J., 
Moore,  P.  S., 
Merritt,  J., 

O'Brien,  M., 
Oliver,  W., 
Powell,  C., 
Read,  J.  L., 
Eachal,  A., 
Ragon,  P.  H., 
Spragg,  W., 
Shiff,  J., 
Springer,  F.  H., 
Trichel,  G.  L., 

Trichel,  E., 
Thomasie,  O., 
Williamson,  J., 


Private. 


Wheitfield,  G.  W.,  " 

Wolf,  J.,  " 

Waddell,  H.  J.,  " 

Yost,  J.  B.,  " 


Wounded  at  Corinth,  Miss.,  Oct.  3,1862 
and  at  Vicksburg,  Miss. 


Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 

Elected  1st  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1863. 

Wounded  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 


Died  from  wounds,  Oak  Hills,  Aug.  10, 
1861. 


ROLL  OF  Co.  "E,"  MOKEHOUSE  FENOIBLES. 

James  F.  Harris,  Captain. 
C.  P.  Brigham,  1st  Lieutenant. 
2d  Lieutenant. 
3d  Lieutenant. 

Dannals,  G.  W.,  1st  Sergeant. 
2d  Sergeant. 

Brashear,  C.  H.,  3d  Sergeant.     Elected  Captain  May  8,  1862. 
Tucker,  J.  M.,  4th  Sergeant, 
McGuire,  G.  W  ,  5th  Sergeant. 

Myers,  J.  P.,  1st  Corporal.     Wounded  September  19, 1862,  luka  and 
Vicksburg. 

2d  Corporal. 
Tomlinson,  M.  A.,  3d  Corporal. 

4th  Corporal. 
Anderson,  H.  D.  B. 


,  THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  267 

Ballard,  D.  C.    Prisoner,  September  19,  1862,  luka. 

Barton,  J.  R.     Killed,  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Bradley,  John. 

Brice,  W.  T.     Killed  at  Oak  Hills,  Aug.  10,  1861. 

Bastic,  A.  G. 

Brigham,  T.     Prisoner,  September  19,  1862,  luka. 

Carter,  J.  J. 

Carter,  C.  J. 

Causey,  W.  S. 

Crane,  S.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 

Culpepper,  L.  B. 

Dawson,  H.  D. 

Downey,  T.  D.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Dudley,  G.  W. 

Esom, .     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Gwinn,  D.  A.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 
Faulkenburg,  W.  W.  U. 
Grubbs,  John. 

Henderson,  Wm.     Prisoner,  September  19,  1862,  luka. 
Haldeness,  James. 
Hughes,  H.  S. 

Halt,  R.  C.     Wounded,  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862,  and  Vicksbnrg.  Elect 
ed  2d  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862. 
Kurd. 

Faw,  W.  H.     Wounded,  Aug.  10,  1861,  Oak  Hills. 
Floyd,  S.  J. 
Floyd,  A.  J. 

Halt,  H.  H.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills. 
Jones,  John. 
Eaton,  T. 
Kirkwood,  J.  H. 
Lanier,  R.  H. 
Mclntire,  J.  A. 
McDonough,  J. 
McGowen,  A. 
Murphy,  C.  C. 
Miller,  G.  O. 

Miller,  D.  L.     Killed  Aug.  10,  1861,  Oak  Hills. 
Masscy,  M.  H. 

Masterton, .     Wounded  Sept.  19,  1862.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 

Norwood,  B.     Killed  September  19,  1862,  luka. 
Miller,  G.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 


368  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Pierson,  P.     Wounded  September  19,  1862,  luka. 

Powell.  J.  S. 

Powell,  A.  J.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Powers,  J.  W. 

Quinn,  R.  L.     Wounded  at  Yicksburg. 

Riley,  J. 

Reardon,  D. 

Smith,  E.  W. 

Stembridge,  J.  E. 

Sullivan,  T. 

Thomas,  A.  J.     Elected  2d  Lieutenant  March,  1863,  Snyder  Mills. 

Tomlinson,  J.  E. 

Tucker,  W.  0. 

Turpin,  J.  G.     Elected  2d  Lieutenant  May  8,  1862. 

Wallace,  T.  II. 

Woodbury,  J.  W.     Killed  August  10,  1861,  Oak  Hills. 

Zeagler,  W.  B. 

ROLL  OF  Co.  "  F,"  SiraEVEroRT  RANGERS. 

J.  B.  Gilmore,  Captain.  Elected  Lieutenant-Colonel  May  8,  1862. 
Promoted  Colonel.  Wounded  September  19,  1862,  luka.  Re 
signed. 

W.  A.  Lacy,  1st  Lieutenant.  Resigned  October  8,  1861.  Dis 
ability. 

O.  J.  Wells,  2d  Lieutenant.  Promoted  1st  Lieutenant,  October  8, 
1861. 

A.  W.  Jewell,  2d  Junior  Lieutenant.  Promoted  2d  Lieutenant, 
October  8,  1861. 

Kinney,  Wm.,  1st  Sergeant.     Elected  Captain  May  8,  1861. 

Davis,  B.  2d  Sergeant.  Wounded  August  10,  1861,  Oak  Hills,  and 
Discharged  October  6,  1861.  Disability. 

Hughes,  W.  W.,  3d  Sergeant.  Transferred  to  McCullough's  Body 
Guard. 

Dandon,  L.  M.,  1st  Corporal.  Elected  2d  Junior  Lieutenant  Octo 
ber  12,  1SG1.  1st  Lieutenant  May  8,  1861. 

Jus,  J.  F.,  2d  Corporal.  Wounded  September  19,  1862,  luka,  and 
twice  at  Vicksburg. 

Home,  J.,  3d  Corporal.  Elected  2d  Junior  Lieutenant  May  8, 1862. 
Died  of  wounds,  Vicksburg. 

Hicox,  H.,  4th  Corporal.  Died  August  18,  1861,  of  wounds,  Oak 
Hills  August  10,  1861. 

Anderson,  J.  H.,  Private.     Discharged  October  9,  1861.     Disability. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  369 

Attaway,  E.  M.,  Private.     Mortally  wounded  Oak  Hills  August  10, 

1861. 

Attaway,  J.  B.,  Private.     Died  June  10,  1861.     Fort  Smith,  Ark. 
Allen,  J.,  Private.     Killed  August  10,  1861.     Oak  Hill,  Mo. 
Allen,  S.,  Private.     Discharged  January  15,  1862.     Camp  Benjamin, 

Ark. 

Brosi,  J.,  Private.     Wounded,  Yicksburg. 
Basser,  J.  H.,  Private.     Wounded  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861. 
Brownwell,  J.  S.,  Private.     Killed  August  10,  1861.     Oak  Hills. 
Breening,  R.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Bird,  E.,  Private.     Discharged. 

Brown,  J.  S.,  Private.     Killed  August  10,  1861,  at  Oak  Hills. 
Bickham,  T.   C.,  Private.     Wounded  August   10,  1861,  Oak  Hills. 

Discharged. 
Bell,  W.  C.,  Private.   'Discharged  July  25,  1861,  at  Camp  Jackson. 

Disability. 

Charlton,  J.,  Private. 

Clark,  M.  O.,  Killed  September  19,  1862,  at  luka. 
Clark,  J.  O.,  Private.     Elected  3d  Senior  Lieutenant  May  8,  1861. 

Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Cole,  R.  F.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Collins.  J.,  Private. 

Cartwright,  D.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Coon,  J.,  Private.     Died  August   15,    1861,  from   wounds   at  Oak 

Hills. 

Craig,  J.,  Private.     Taken  prisoner,  never  heard  from. 
Carroll,  E.  R.,  .Private. 
Chastein,  W.  J.,  Private.     Died  September  3,  1861.     Mount  Ver- 

non,  Mo. 

Chastein,  J.,  Private.     Discharged. 

Duvall,  D.  S.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Dill,  T.  K,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Dodez,  D.  G.,  Private. 
Davis,  F.  A.,  Private.     Wounded  August  10, 1861,  at  Oak  Hills  and 

Vicksburg. 

Donahoe,  J.,  Private.     Died  August  16,  1861,  wounds  at  Oak  Hills. 
Dick  R.,  Private.     Captured  at  Chickamauga  and  kept  in  prison. 
Dwire,  P.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Dougherty,  J.  P.,  Private.     Died  August  18,  1861,  at  Springfield. 

Mo. 

Efner,  G.  M.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Gray,  A.  Me.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
16* 


370  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

Gallagher  T.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

Hudson,  W.  T.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Howard,  J.,  Private.      Killed  August  5,  1861,  at  Camp  Stephens, 

Arkansas. 

Hicox,  J.  W.,  Private.  Wounded  August  10,  1861,  at  Oak  Hills. 
Hudson,  T.  S.,  Private.  Wounded  September  19,  1862,  at  luka. 
Jinks,  J.  D.,  Private. 

Jones,  J.  TV.,  Private.     Died  of  wounds,  Corinth,  October  3,  1862. 
Jefferson,  J.  F.,  Private. 

Kidd,  J.,  Private.  Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Kelly,  D.,  Private.  Discharged  July  19,  1872,  Conscript  Act. 
Kimball,  J.,  Private. 

Larmier,  J.,  Private.     Discharged,  disability. 
Lynch,  M.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Lawson,  M..  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Lawson,  Wm.,  Private.     Discharged  October  6,  1861,  Conscript  Act. 
Liles,  H.  T.,  Private. 
McGintry,  J.,  Private. 
Miller,  J.  J.,  Private 
Miller,  M.  F.,  Private. 
McGray,  A.,  Private. 
Marr,  T.,  Private. 
Mayes,  J.  W.,  Private. 

Manning,  S.  J.,  Private.     Wounded  August  10,  1861,  at  Oak  Hills. 
Manning,  G.  W.,  Private. 

Newland,  C.  W.,  Private.     Wounded  September  19, 1862,  at  luka. 
Nicholas,  A.,  Private. 
Percell,  W.  H.,  Private. 

Pennery,  P.  L.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Patterson,  J.  P.,  Private. 
Peisker,  F.,  Private. 

Pierce,  F.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Poland,  T.,  Private.     Discharged  January  8,  1862.     Disability. 
Parker,  R.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Rosser,  J.  H.,  Private.     Transferred. 
Roberts,  T.  M.,  Private.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 
Ruif,  G.  V.,  Private.     Discharged  October  6,  1861.     Disability. 
Reasoner,  TV.  B.,  Private. 
Singer,  L.  J.,  Private.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 
Simpson,  B.  L.,  Private.     Died  August  15,  1861,  from  wounds  at 

Oak  Hills. 
Shelton,  W.  A.,  Private.    Captured  at  Oak  Hills. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  371 

Smith,  T.  D.,  Private.  Died  on  steamer  May  25, 1861.  Buried  at 
Napoleon,  Ark. 

Smith,  J.,  Private. 

Scanlan,  J.  S.,  Corporal.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Sheridan  ,  W.,  Private     Discharged  July  19,  1861,  Conscript  Act. 

Sheridan,  P.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Sheffield,  G.  F.,  Private.     Died. 

Shows,  J.  M.,  Private.    Discharged  September  25,  1861. 

Sewell,  J.  H.,  Private. 

Scruggs,  E.,  Private.     Discharged  July  25,  1861.     Disability. 

Thompson,  J.  Q.,  Private.   Discharged  July  19, 1862.    Conscript  Act. 

Thomas,  W.  II.  C.,  Private.     Discharged. 

Ward,  R.  A.,  Private. 

Weaver,  W.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

Wilson,  J.,  Private.  Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act,  re 
joined. 

Walls,  C.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

White,  T.  J.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

White,  J.  A.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

Young,  J.,  Private.    Discharged. 


ROLL  OP  COMPANY  "G"  PELICAN  RANGERS,  No.  1. 

W.  W.  Breazeale,  Captain.     Resigned  September  24,  1861. 

W.  O.  Breazele,  1st  Lieutenant.     Resigned  September  24,  1861. 

G.  W.  Halloway,  2d  Lieutenant.     Resigned  October  13,  1861. 

L.  Caspari,  2d  Junior  Lieutenant.  Promoted  1st  Lieutenant  Octo 
ber  12,  1861  ;  Captain  February  18,  1862. 

W.  B.  Butler,  1st  Sergeant.     Elected  Captain,  May  8,  1862. 

P.  L.  Prudhomme,  2d  Sergeant.     Elected  2d  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862. 

J.  C.  Trichel,  3d  Sergeant.     Promoted  2d  Sergeant,  May  15,  1862. 

J.  A.  Derbonne,  4th  Sergeant.     Promoted  1st  Sergeant  May  15,  1862. 

F.  F.  Chalcr,  5th  Sergeant.  Died  at  Maysville,  Ark.,  September  14, 
1861. 

R.  W.  McConel,  1st  Corporal.     Discharged,  July  16,  1862. 

H.  L.  Tauzin,  2d  Corporal.     Discharged  September  6,  1861. 

T.  W.  Abbington,  3d  Corporal.  Appointed  Color  Guard,  September 
20,  1861. 

F.  W.  Sanchez,  4th  Corporal.  Promoted  3d  Corporal  November  1, 
1861 ;  2d  Corporal  May  15,  1862. 

Aleman,  R.,  Private. 


372  A   SOUTHERN   EECOED. 

Bassier,  P.,  Private.     Elected  3d  Lieutenant  May  8,  1862. 

Sassier,  Placide,  Private.     Killed  at  Oak  Hill,  August  10,  1861. 

Bassier,  P.  E.,  Private.     Discharged  July  25,  1862. 

Breazeale,  B.  B.,  Private.     Appointed  5th  Sergeant,  May  15,  1862. 

Barmes,  M.,  Private.    Discharged  July  15,  1862. 

Bordinave,  V.,  Private.     Died  at  Castillian  Springs,  October  3,  1862. 

Behrman,  Private.     Joined  March  3,  1862 ;  captured  at  luka. 

Bernes,  F.,  Private.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn. 

Charleville,  J.,  Private.     Appointed  3d  Sergeant  May  15,  1862. 

Charleville,  W.  A.  Private. 

Oastey,  0.  D.  Private. 

Craft,  S,  E.,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862, 

Cannon,  D.,  Private.     Prisoner  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 

Cloutier,  F.,  Private. 

Charles,  L.,  Private.     Discharged  December  9,  1861. 

Despallier,  B.  P.,  Private. 

Dell,  J.  S.,  Private.     Discharged  December  3,  1864. 

Dew,  L.,  Private.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn,  July  16,  1862. 

Dickens,  A.,  Private.     Joined  March  3,  1862  ;  captured  at  luka. 

DeBaillion,  B.,  Private.     Discharged  October  10,  1861. 

Dozier,  C.  H.,         "  "  "        10,     " 

Eshworth,  J.  L.,    "  "  "         10,     " 

Escabeda,  M.,  Private. 

Espy,  K.,  Private.     Appointed  Assistant  Surgeon,  May  11,  1861. 

Flores,  L.,  Private. 

Garcia,  A.,  Private. 

Gainnie,  F.,  Private.     Elected  3d  Lieutenant  October  12,  1861 ;  1st 

Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862. 

Guiincharnp,  J.,  Private.     Joined  March  3,  1862. 
Guiin champ,  E.,         "  "  "     3,     "       Captured  at  luka. 

Guiton,  J.,  "  "  "     3,     u 

Hyams,  J.  P.,  " 

Haller,.P.,  " 

Haller,  T.,  " 

Hynes,  S.,  Private.     Discharged  October  6,  1861. 
Hughes,  H.,  Private.         "  "       10,     " 

Hernandez,  S.,  Private. 

Ilitzman,  J.,  Private.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Hoffman,  J.  C.,  Private.     Discharged  October  6,  1861. 
Hertzel,  Samuel,  Private.     Joined  March  3,  1861. 
Hartman,  M.  S.,  Private.  "          "       3,     '< 

Jones,  A.,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  373 

Johnson.  J.,  Private.     Discharged  June  13,  1861. 

Keyser,  J.  C.  O.,  Private.     Appointed  1st  Corporal  August  10,  1801. 

Kyle,   Jas.,   Private.     Elected  3d  Lieutenant   December   28,  1861. 

Discharged  May  24,  1862. 

Lemoine,  T.,  Private.     Appointed  4th  Corporal  May  15,  1862. 
Lowe,  A.,  Private. 
Lyons,  H.  L.,  Private. 
Moss,  Jas.  W.,  Private.     Elected  3d  Lieutenant   October  12,   1861. 

Promoted  1st  Lieutenant  December  28,  1861. 
McKenna,  H.,  Private. 
McDaniel,  F.,  Private. 
Miller,  H.,  Private. 

Murphy,  C.  V.,  Private.     Appointed  3d  Corporal  May  15,  1862. 
Matthews,  J.  H.,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862. 
Nagle,  J.,  Private.     Captured  at  luka. 

Norris,  J,  C.,  Private.     Appointed  1st  Corporal  May  15,  1862. 
Nores,  J.,  Private.     Appointed  4th  Sergeant  October  1,  1862. 
Ourdin,  F.,  Private.     Joined  March  3,  1862. 
Prudhomme,  J.  A.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 

Discharged  April  17,  1862. 

Phillips,  Ed.,  Private.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Prue,  F.,  Private. 
Pine,  F.,  Private. 

Rachal,  P.,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862. 
Rachal,  J.  B.  D.,  Priv.ate. 

Rachal,  T.,  Private.     Discharged  Novembers,  1861. 
Rowo,  A.    H.,   Private.     Wounded   at  Elk   Horn,   March  7,  1862, 

Wounded  April  17,  1862. 
Rivera,  M.,  Private. 

Richeson,  R.  A.,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862. 
Sasser,  J.  L.,  Private. 

Shea,  J.,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  1862. 
Schroeder,  C.  F.  H.,  Private.     Killed  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Shaw,  M.  J.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Sing,  A.  J.,  Private.     Discharged  January  13,  1862. 
Smith,  Thos.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Tool,  M.,  Private.     Discharged  November  28,  1861. 
Tauzin,  John  M.,  Private.     Killed  September  19,  1862,  at  luka. 
Wilson,  P.,  Private.     Discharged  July  16,  18G2. 
Wrinkle,  A.  D.,  Private. 

Warner,  B.  F.,  Private.     Killed  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Wright,  John,  Private. 


374  A  SOUTHERN  RECORD. 


ROLL  OF  Co.  "  H,"  MOJSTICELLO  KIFLES. 

J.   S.   Ricliards,   Captain.       Re-elected  May   8,   1862.      Promoted 

Major. 
W.  D.  Hardeman,  1st  Lieutenant.     Promoted  Captain  and  A.  Q.  M., 

A.  A.  G.,  General  Hebert's  Staff. 

A.  A.  Hedrick,  2d  Lieutenant.    Promoted  1st  Lieutenant,  May  8, 
1862. 

W.  H.  Corbin,  2d  Lieutenant.     Discharged. 

H.  Maynadier,  1st  Sergeant.     Discharged. 

A.  W.  Currie,  2d  Sergeant.     Promoted  Captain.     Elected  2d  Lieu 
tenant,  May  8,  1862. 

J.  W.  Alexander,  3d  Sergeant.     Killed  at  Floyd,  La.,  by  Federals. 

Dr.  J.  Chambless,  4th  Sergeant.     Appointed  Surgeon,  1861. 

T.  G.  Walcott,  1st  Corporal.     Discharged. 

Dr.  J.  S.  Herring,  2d  Corporal.     Discharged. 

W.  A.  Page,  8d  Corporal.     Discharged.     Rejoined. 

C.  E.  Guy,  4th  Corporal. 

Anthony,  S.  L. 

Atkins,  J.  M.     Discharged,  1861. 

Beard,  W.  A.,  1st  Sergeant.     Killed,  March  7,  1862,  Elk  Horn. 

Beverly,  J.  J.     Discharged,  1862,  Fayetteville,  Ark. 

Bickman,  J.  D.     Killed,  September  19,  1862,  luka. 

Bonner,  "VV.  F.     Discharged. 

Bowles,  J.  E.     Died,  1861,  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 

Bradley,  W.  C. 

Briggs,  H.  D.     Appointed  1st  Sergeant,  1862. 

Bruton,  B.     Discharged.     Killed  at  Floyd,  La. 

Bullard,  T.     Discharged. 

Byrd,  H. 

Byrd,  J.     Killed,  Vicksburg. 

Burns,  W.,  Corporal.     Killed,  Vicksburg. 

Cathron,  J. 

Crawford,  F.  A. 

Canady,  W.  J. 

Collins,  G.     Discharged.     Killed  by  Federals. 

Collinsky,  P.     Discharged. 

Corbin,  W.  P.     Killed,  March  7,  1862,  Elk  Horn,  Ark. 

Corbin,  J.  J.     Discharged.     Afterward  Lieutenant 

Davis,  J. 

Dawson,  M.  H. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  375 

De  France,  A. 

Dempsey, .     Died. 

Dorsey,  W.     Died  at  Hospital,  Quitman,  Ala. 

Drake,  J.  B.     Discharged. 

Eddins,  L.  S. 

Ewing,  A.  G-.     Captain  and  A.  C.  S.,  3d  Louisiana  Cavalry. 

Fitch,  "W.  P.     Discharged. 

Fitch,  N.  F.     Discharged. 

Green,  W. 

Gardner,  T.  B. 

Guy,  C.  E. 

Hedrick,  J.  E.  C.    Discharged. 

Hedrick,  P.  P. 

Hedrick,  W.  A. 

Hargrove,  W.  J. 

Hargrove,  J.  F.    Wounded,  Vicksburg. 

Hash,  B.  F.     Died. 

Holbrook, .     Discharged. 

Holden,  J.  J.     Discharged. 

Horton,  W.  C.     Killed. 

Horton,  H.  T. 

Holland,  J.  B. 

Howard,  J.     Discharged,  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

Humphreys,  J.  H. 

Insley,  T. 

IT  win,  E. 

Irwin,  J.  J. 

James,  S.     Died,  June,  1861,  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 

Jeeter,  C.  S.    Killed  accidentally,  1863,  Snyder's  Bluff. 

Jones,  M.  A.  J.     Discharged. 

Keegan,  Geo. 

Kelly,  J.    Discharged,  wounded. 

Keeff,  M.     Discharged,  1862. 

Knight,  B.     Died,  1862,  Tupelo,  Miss. 

Landfair,  J.  L. 

Leggett,  E.  H. 

Maugum,  W.  S.     Discharged. 

Martin,  J.  A.     Killed,  Vicksburg. 

Martin,  T.  D. 

Murphy,  M. 

McCarty,  F.  B. 

McCowen,  J.   Wounded,  Vicksburg. 


376  A.   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

McDonald,  J.     Killed,  September  19,  1862,  luka. 

McDonald,  E. 

McGrew,  S.  J.     Killed  at  Floyd,  La.,  by  Federals. 

McNicl,  J.     Elected  1st  Lieutenant. 

McFadden,  E. 

Morrison,  J. 

Morehead,  N. 

Nash,  J.  K.     Appointed  3d  Sergeant. 

Nolan,  W.  P.     Discharged. 

Only,  J.  T.    Killed,  March  7,  1862,  Elk  Horn. 

Perry,  J.  E.         "  "  " 

Perry,  J.  R. 

Pope,  W.  P.    Discharged. 

Richardson,  W.  W.     Discharged. 

Richardson,  L.,  Dr.     Discharged. 

Ravan,  J.     Discharged. 

Ray,  J.  E.     Discharged. 

Reese,  J.  C.     Killed,  Vicksburg. 

Reese,  S.  L. 

Rollins,  J.     Discharged. 

Rollins,  R.     Discharged. 

Roland,  J.  F. 

Scott,  R.  C.     Transferred  to  McCulloch's  escort,  1861. 

Scott,  H.  L. 

Sharplin,  W.  P.     Killed,  March  7,  1862,  Elk  Horn. 

Smith,  J.  M. 

Sherdan,  B.  F.     Discharged. 

Sherdan,  J.  M.     Discharged. 

Singleton,  S.  S.     Killed,  March  7,  1862,  Elk  Horn. 

Sims,  L.  P. 

Smithe,  J.  M.     Killed,  March  7,  1862,  Elk  Horn. 

Smithe,  K  B.     Discharged. 

Spurlock,  J.  L.     Discharged. 

Stuart,  J.  M.     Elected  2d  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862.     Wounded  at 

Vicksburg. 

Tomlin,  M.  H.     Killed  on  "  Big  Black,'1  Miss. 
Tompkins,  J.  B. 
Wade,  S. 

Weatherly,  W.  W.     Died. 
"Whatley,  J.  W. 
Wilson,  D.     Discharged. 
Veale,  J.    Killed,  Vicksburg. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  377 

Young,  S.    Discharged. 

Young,  James.     Died,  1861,  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 

Young,  John. 

ROLL  OF  Co.  "  I,"  CALDWELL  GUARDS. 

W.  L.  Gunnels,  Captain. 

Evans,  T.  J.,  1st  Lieutenant. 

Fluilt,  S.  B.,  2d  Lieutenant. 

Humble,  T.  C.,  2d  Jr.  Lieutenant.    Wounded  at  Oak  Hills.   Elected 

Major  31st  Louisiana,  and  killed  at  first  siege  of  Vicksburg. 
Stringer,  J.  J.,  1st  Sergeant. 
Brinton,  J.  A.,  2d  Sergeant. 
Guffy,  H.  M.,  3d  Sergeant. 
Stutson,  W.  S,,  4th  Sergeant. 
Broadway,  T.  J.,  5th  Sergeant.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn,  March 

7,  1862. 

Ely  the,  T.  J.,  1st  Corporal. 
Bridger,  J.  C.,  2d  Corporal. 
McClary,  W.  D.,  3d  Corporal. 
"VVeatherford,  4th  Corporal. 
Brian,  B.  F.,  Private. 
Breard,  C.  A. 
Brooks,  J. 
Beale,  "W.  H.     Taken  prisoneer  at  Elk  Horn.     Died  of  wounds  at 

luka,  September  19,  18G2. 
Bliss,  D.  W.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn. 
Banks,  A.  J.     Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Barnett,  W.  T. 

Chandler,  W.  S.     Discharged. 
Crane,  P.  II.     Discharged. 
Cottingham,  "W.  E. 
Cottingham,  J.  R.     Elected  2d  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862.     Wounded 

and  taken  prisoner  at  Snyder's  Bluff,  April,  1863. 
Cartwright,  M.  P.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Cantelere,  F.  E.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn.     Wounded  at  luka, 

September  19,  1862. 
Caiu,  W.  L. 

Cain,  L.  L.     Wounded  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 
Cain,  F.  F.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862.  Wounded 

at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 
Craddock,  J.  D. 


378  A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 

Dunn,  D.  F. 

Dunn,  T.  J.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 

Downes,  J.  E. 

Dowd,  W.     Taken  prisoner  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Douglas,  E.  M.     Wounded  at  Corinth.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 

Fluett,  J.  P. 

Fluett,  J.  S.    Discharged. 

Faulks,  W.  C. 

Fogle,  W. 

Fegart,  E.  W. 

Freeman,  D.     Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 

Ferrand,  C.  A.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn. 

Flowers,  J.  M.     Taken  prisoner  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Guffey,  W.  J. 

Gregory,  W.  J.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn. 

Girod,  E.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk   Horn,  and  wounded  at  Corinth, 

October  3,  1862.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 
Gray,  J.  R.    Wounded  at  luka,  September  19,  1862,  and  Vicksburg. 

Gray, . 

Girod,  F.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Greene,  R.  J. 

Hines,  J.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg,  and  at  luka. 

Hough,  H.  C.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Howell,  S.  J.     Killed  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Hamilton,  F.  M. 

Hargrove,  W.  P. 

Heigdon,  D. 

Hough,  T.  J. 

Haley,  J.  E. 

Hanna,  J.  E. 

Humble,  G.  W.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Hass,  H. 

Johnson,  J.  E.     Elected  Captain,  May  8,  1862.     Wounded  at  luka, 

September  19,  1862.  and  Vicksburg,  July  7,  1863.     Died  from 

wounds. 

Johnson,  J.  B.     Wounded  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 
Johnson,  H.  L. 

Jenkins,  W.     Killed  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 
Jones,  J. 
Killcrease,  II. 

Kelly,  A.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 
Kelly,  J.  F.     Prisoner  at  Elk  Horn. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  379 

Levy,  L.    Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861. 

Landerneau,  J. 

Lilly,  W.  E. 

Lawson,  W.  P.  Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862.  Killed  at 
Vicksburg. 

Landerneau,  A. 

Mason,  S.  W. 

Mason,  W.  H.     Died,  July  30,  1861. 

Mason,  D.  F.     Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn. 

McCormack,  J.  O.  Wounded  at  luka,  September  19, 1862.  Wound 
ed  at  Vicksburg. 

McFarland,  W.  L. 

McFarland,  G.  T.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

McFadden,  J.  M. 

Moss,  W.  A. 

March,  D.     Taken  prisoner  at  Corinth,  October  3,  1862. 

Mayfield,  J.  W. 

Michell,  J.  R. 

Miller,  H.  J.     Died  July  17,  1861. 

Moffit,  S.  J.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Corinth,  October  3,  1862. 

Moffltt,  J.  W.,  Private. 

Mourain,  G.  P.,  Private. 

Madden,  V.  V.  • 

May,  W.  B. 

McQuarters,  W.  A.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Meredith,  T.  McB.  Wounded  at  Oak  Hills.  Elected  1st  Lieuten 
ant,  May  8,  18G2.  Promoted  Captain. 

Meredith,  R.  B.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg.     Prisoner  at  Elk  Horn. 

Meredith,  B. 

Noble,  T.  J.     Discharged. 

Noble,  W.  C.     Wounded  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Perry,  A.  J. 

Pace,  J.  C.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Bundle,  G.  K.     Taken  prisoner  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Rice,  M.  T. 

Ray,  M.  V.  Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Ray,  B.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg.     Prisoner  at  Elk  Horn. 

Ray,  F.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Sapp,  W. 

Swain,  G.  B. 

Sanclridge,  J.  M.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Sweeny,  W. 


380  A  SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

Stuart,  L.  P.     Killed  at  Vicksburg. 

Stephens,  F.  M. 

Smith,  P.  R.  Taken  prisoner  at  Elk  Horn.  Wounded  at  Vicks 
burg. 

Tegart,  E.  W. 

Vaughn,  J.  L.  Wounded  at  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862.  Killed  at 
Vic.ksburg. 

Whittington,  A. 

Watson,  J.  G. 

Walker,  O. 

White,  M.     Taken  prisoner  at  luka,  September  19,  1862. 

Whittington,  W.  W. 

Wooten,  W.  L. 

Williams,  J.  R. 

Weatherford,  R. 

Whitehurst,  A. 

Watsson,  G.  W.     Died  July  21,  1861. 

ROLL  OF  COMPANY  "K,"  PELICAN  RIFLES. 

Tunnard,  W.  F.,  Captain.     Elected  Major  May,  1861 ;  taken  prisoner 

at  Elk  Horn. 

J.  P.  Viglini,  1st  Lieutenant.  *Elected  Captain  May,  1861. 
J.    B.   Irvvin,   2d   Lieutenant.     Elected   1st   Lieutenant  May,  1862. 

Killed  at  luka,  Sept.  19,  1862. 
Watson,  W.,    1st   Sergeant.      Discharged,  Conscript  Act,  July  19, 

1862. 

Waddcll,  G.  D.,  2d  Sergeant.     Appointed  Hospital  Steward. 
Tunnard,  W.  II.,  3d  Sergeant.     Appointed  A.  C.  S.  Sergeant,  May, 

18G2. 

Hurley,  C.,  4th  Sergeant.     Elected  1st  Sergeant,  May,  1862. 
Bogcl,  J.  C.,  1st  Corporal. 
Gentles,  II.  II.,  2d  Corporal.     Elected  Junior  2d  Lieutenant,  October 

12th,  1861 ;  Captain,  May  8th,  1862  ;  wounded  and  taken  prisoner 

at  luka,  Sept.  19th,  1862. 
Brunat,  F.  R.,  3d  Corporal.     Elected   Junior  2d  Lieutenant,  May, 

1861.     Died,  March,  1862. 

Lewis,  D.,  4th  Corporal.     3d  Sergeant,  May,  1862. 
Patterson,  R.,   Musician.      Drum-major,   by   appointment,  May    15, 

18G2. 
Ilersch,  II.,  Musician.      Transferred  from  Co.  A.,  July  1st,   1862. 

Killed  at  luka. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY.  381 

Cambell,  D.,  Musician.      Discharged  October,  1861,  Camp  Jackso^ 
Ark.,  disability. 

Aldricli,  M.  C.,  Private.    A.  C.  S.  Department,  detached. 

Allen,  J.  B.,  Private.     Died  July  15,  1861,  Fort  Smith,  Ark. 

Alexander,  S.,  Private. 

Alexander,  A.,  Private.     Discharged  October,  1861,  disability. 

Addison,  J.  A.,  Private.  "  "      25th,  1862,  disability. 

Bovard,  J.  A.,  Private. 

Bovard,  W.  T.,  Private. 

Booth,  A.  B.,  Private. 

Benton,  L.  J.,  Private.     Killed  June  9,  1863,  Vicksburg. 

Benton,  E.  J.,  Private.     Wounded  and  died  June  30,  1863,  Vicks 
burg. 

Burrows,  P.,  Private. 

Brandenstein,  M.,  Private.     2d  Corporal ;  killed  May  22,  1863. 

Boullion,  J.  R,  Private.     Died  February  9,  1862,  Fayetteville,  Ark. 

Boullion,  J.  J.,  Private.     Discharged  August  26,  1862,  disability. 

Barratt,  J.  E.,  Private. 

Bell,  A.  J.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

Burrows,  A.  P.  Private. 

Bills,  J.  T.,  Private.     Discharged  October,  1861,  disability. 

Bills,  II.,  Private.     Elected  4th  Sergeant  May,  1861. 

Bellow,  E.  J.,  Private.     Discharged  January  1862,  disability.     Re 
joined. 

Caffreay,  J.,  Private.     Wounded  and  taken  prisoner  at  luka,  Sept. 
19,  1862. 

Crasson,  J.  P.,  Private.     Discharged,  disability. 

Contini,  F.,  Private. 

Chambers,  J.  F.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Vicksburg. 

Cain,  W.  P.,  Private.     Killed,  Elk  Horn,  March  7,  1862. 

Chambers,   H.   H.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,   1862,  Conscript 
Act. 

Cameron,  A.  F.,  Private.     Discharged  September,  1861,  Camp  Jack 
son,  Ark.,  disability. 

Cameron,  A.  W.,  Private. 

Curran,  M.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861,  and 
discharged  September,  1861,  Camp  Jackson,  Ark. 

Crane,  Jas.,  Private.     Discharged  September,  1861,  Camp  Jackson, 
Ark.,  disability. 

Duffy,  A.  V.,  Private.     Killed  May  22,  1863,  Vicksburg. 

Dalsheimer,  A.,  Private.    Taken  prisoner,  Corinth,  May  4,  1862. 
Duggan,  T.,  Private. 


382  A  SOUTHERN   EECORD. 

Denham,  R.  T.,  Private.     Killed  September  19,  1862,  luka,  Miss. 

Elter,  A.,  Private.     Taken  prisoner  May  17,  1863,  Snyder's  Bluff. 

Edmonston,  W.  L.,  Private.  Taken  prisoner  and  wounded  October 
4,  1862,  Corinth.  Wounded  at  Yicksburg,  1863. 

Echols,  D.,  Private.  4th  Corporal.  Taken  prisoner  March  7,  1862. 
Elk  Horn,  and  May  19,  1862,  luka.  Wounded  and  died  July  7th, 
1863,  Vicksburg. 

Erwin,  W.,  Private.  Wounded  March  7,  1862,  Elk  Horn,  and  dis 
charged  April  27,1862. 

Funke,  F.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

Fraenkel,  F.,  Private,     Discharged  May,  1861,  disability. 

Finlay,  H.,  Private.     Went  to  England  after  siege  of  Vicksburg. 

Gay,  D.  B.,  Private.     Transferred  to  Point  Coupee,  October,  1862. 

Hueston,  J.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 

Hickman,  B.  F.,  Private.  Wounded  October  4,  1862,  Corinth  and 
Vicksburg.  Died  July  3,  1863. 

Hughes,  J.  C.,  Private.     Discharged  April  27,  1862. 

Heroman,  F.  M.,  Private.     Discharged  July  19, 1862,  Conscript  Act. 

Hock,  J.,  Private.  Taken  prisoner  September  19,  1862,  luka. 
Went  to  Germany. 

Hall,  C.,  Private.  Wounded  August  10,  1861,  Oak  Hills.  Dis 
charged  September,  1861,  Camp  Jackson. 

Hernandez,  H.,  Private.  Died  September  5, 1861,  Mount  Vernon,  Mo. 

Hernandez,  L.,  Private.     Discharged  May,  1861,  N.  Orleans. 

Hardy,  J.  H.,  Private.  Discharged  August  20, 1861,  Camp  Jackson, 
Ark.,  disability. 

Hackett,  A.,  Private. 

Henderson,  R.  L.,  Private.  Discharged  April  7,  1862,  Fayetteville, 
Ark.  Captain  8th  La.,  Batn.  H.  Artillery. 

Hyatt,  J.,  Private.     Left  Company  December,  1862. 

Jolly,  E.,  Private.     2d  Sergeant. 

Jones,  Chas.,  Private.     Discharged,  May,  1861,  N".  Orleans. 

Knox,  N.  L.,  Private.  Wounded  August  10,  1861,  Oak  Hills,  and 
died  September  15,  1861,  Mt.  Vernon,  Mo. 

Loyd,  E.  A.,  Private. 

McGuinness,  W.,  Private. 

McFarland,  W.,  Private. 

McCabe,  R.  J.,  Private. 

Monget,  W.,  Private.  Wounded,  Oak  Hills,  August  10,  1861.  Dis 
charged,  September,  1861. 

Nelson,  J.  M.,  Private.  Detached  September  16,  1862,  A.  Q.  M.  De 
partment. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA  INFANTRY. 

Perry,  J.  Gr.,  Private. 

Pino,  A.,  Private. 

Payne,  A.  B.,  Private.     Elected  2d  Junior  Lieutenant,  May  8,  1862. 

Powers,  J.,  Private.     Discharged  January  1,  1863,  disability. 

Roysdon,  A.  W-,  Private.     Transferred  to  25th  La.  Inf.,  1865. 

Robinson,  G.  L.,  Private. 

Russ,   S.  P.,   Private.     1st  Corporal.     Wounded  at  Oak  Hills  and 

Vicksburg. 
Robertson,  J.  H.,  Private.     Wounded  at  Corinth    October  4,  1863, 

and  taken  prisoner. 
Roddy,  J.,  Private.     3d  Corporal.    Wounded  and  taken  prisoner 

September  19,  1862,  luka. 
Reams,  D.  B.,  Private. 

Russ,  V.  C.,  Private.     Discharged,  July  19,  1862,  Conscript  Act. 
Smith,  Jed.,  Private.     Discharged,  January,  1862,  Fayetteville,  Ark. 
Sparks,  J.  H.,  Private.     Discharged,  October,  1862,  disability. 
Stephens,  J.  Gr.,  Private. 
Sanchez,  J.,  Private.     Discharged,  September,  1861,  Camp  Jackson, 

Ark.,  disability. 

Tunnard,  F.  D.,  Private.     1st  Sergeant.     Elected  2d  Junior  Lieuten 
ant,  May,  1861,  N.  Orleans.     Resigned  and  returned  to  Regiment 

1862.  Wounded  at  luka. 
Thomas,  H.,  Private. 
Taqueno,  F.,  Private.     Wounded  and  taken  prisoner,  October  4th, 

1862,  Corinth. 
Walters,  T.  R.,  Private.     Wounded  August  10,   1861,  Oak   Hills. 

Discharged,  September,  1861. 
Williams,  J.  D.,  Private.     Elected  2d  Lieutenant,  May  8th,  1862. 

Wounded  October  4th,  1862,  Corinth. 
Watson,  W.  W.,  Private.     Discharged,  January,  1862,  Fayetteville, 

Ark.,  disability. 
Williams,  J.,  Private.     Wounded  August  10,  1861,  Oak  Hills,  and 

discharged,  September,  1861,  Camp  Jackson. 

ROLL  OF  Co.  UH,"  22d  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY. 

Comprising  members  of  the  3d  Louisiana  Infantry  remaining  East 
of  the  Mississippi  River. 

Captain,  C.  H.  Brash  ear. 
1st  Lieutenant,  J.  P.  Parsons. 
2d  Lieutenant,  W.  T.  Fagan. 
2d  Lieutenant,  Jr.,  A.  J.  Thomas. 


384 


A   SOUTHERN  RECORD. 


1st  Sergeant,  C.  Hurley. 
2d          "        A.  B.  Booth. 
3d          "        J.  Roddy. 
4th          «        T.  Williams. 


1.  Aldrich,  M.  C. 

2.  Bellow,  E.  J. 

3.  Bills,  J.  H. 

4.  Blankenship,  W. 

5.  Barrett,  J.  E. 

6.  Boyard,  L.  C. 

7.  Oaldwell,  W.  R. 

8.  Cooper,  T.  E. 

9.  Crawford,  J.  F. 

10.  Downey,  P.  V. 

11.  Farrell,  M. 

12.  Finn,  T. 

13.  Foster,  T.  E. 

14.  Grubbs,  J.  T. 

15.  Gould,  J.  T. 

16.  Hackett,  A. 

17.  Hubbard,  J. 

18.  Holland,  A. 

19.  Hurd,  W. 

20.  Hall,  J.  B. 

21.  Hudson,  W.  T. 

22.  Johnston,  J. 

23.  Johnston,  W. 

24.  Jones,  M.  D. 

25.  Reilly,  H. 


1st  Corporal,  W.  E.  "Walker. 
2d  "        J.  F.  Chambers. 

3d  "         W.  B.  Sheffield. 

4th          "         R.  J.  Galloway. 

PRIVATES. 

26.  Lcaundry,  F.  T. 

27.  Little,  G.  B.  K 

28.  McCaskey,  T.  H. 

29.  Minter,  N. 

30.  Meyer,  A. 

31.  Manning,  S.  J. 

32.  Miller,  H. 

33.  Moore,  J.  F. 

34.  Norton,  C. 

35.  Oman,  C.  J. 

36.  Orman,  M.  A. 

37.  Phillips,  E.  B. 

38.  Pugh, . 

39.  Paff,  C.  W. 

40.  Patterson,  J.  P. 

41.  Pierson,  P. 

42.  Robbins,  M.  C. 

43.  Rogers,  . 

44.  Swain,  L.  B. 

45.  Saunders,  W. 

46.  Shumaker,  M.  V. 

47.  Thompson,  J.  A. 

48.  Taquino,  F. 

49.  Walker,  R. 

50.  White,  R.  R. 


LIST  OF  CASUALTIES  OF  THE  SD  REGIMENT  LOUISIANA  INFANTRI 
AT  THE  BATTLE  OF  OAK  HILLS  (WILSON'S  CREEK),  Mo.,  Aue 
10,  1861. 

T.  R.  Verbois,  2d  Lieutenant,  Co.  A.     Slightly  wounded 

John  McManus,  Private,  Co.  A.     Wounded  slightly. 

M.  Coughlan,  "  «  "  " 

1ST.  Beard,  "  "  "        seriously. 

E.  Le  Blanc,  «  "  "  " 

R.  H.  Hinson,  Captain,  Co.  B.     Killed. 

J.  P.  Renwick,  Sergeant-major,  Co.  B.     Killed. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  385 

E.  A,  Whetstone,  Private,  Co.  B.     Killed. 

0.  E.  Adamson,  Sergeant,  Co.  B.     Wounded. 

J.  W.  Pettit,  Sergeant,  Co.  B.     Wounded. 

J.  W.  Hewitt,  Private,  Co.  B.     Wounded  seriously. 

T.  J.  Potts,  Private,  Co.  B.     Wounded  seriously. 

B.  Norton,  Private,  Co.  B.     Wounded  slightly. 

J.  Sullivan,  Private,  Co.  B.     Missing. 

II.  Cockerham,  Private,  Co.  C.     Killed. 

N.  M.  Middlebrooks,  1st  Sergeant,  Co.  C.     Wounded  seriously. 

M.  McBride,  Private,  Co.  C.     Wounded  slightly. 

J.  D.  Warner,  Private,  Co.  C.     Wounded  slightly. 

Williamson,  J  Private,  Co.  D.     Died  from  wounds. 

T>.  Davis,  Private,  Co.  D.     Wounded  slightly. 

J).  L.  Miller,  Private,  Co.  E.     Killed. 

W.  F.  Brice,  Private,  Co.  E.     Killed. 

J.  W.  Woodburn,  Private,  Co.  E.     Killed. 

II.  H.  Halt,  Private,  Co.  E.     Wounded  slightly. 

AV.  II.  Faw,  Private,  Co.  E.     Missing. 

Janies  Allen,  Private,  Co.  F.     Killed. 

John  S.  Brown,  Private,  Co.  F.     Killed. 

Thomas  W.  Hecox,  Corporal,  Co.  F.     AVounded  seriously. 

Ben.  Davis,  Sergeant,  Co.  F.     AVounded  slightly. 

B.  L.  Simpson,  Private,  Co.  F.     AVounded  seriously. 

J.  Donohue,  Private,  Co.  F.     AArounded  seriously. 

E.  M.  Altaway,  Private,  Co.  F.     AVounded  seriously. 
S.  J.  Manning,  Private,  Co.  F.     Wounded  slightly. 
J.  Coon,  Private,  Co.  F.     AVounded  slightly. 

T.  C.  Bickham,  Private,  Co.  F.     Wounded  slightly. 

F.  Davis,  Private,  Co.  F.     AVounded  slightly. 

J.  H.  Basse:',  Private,  Co.  F.     AVounded  slightly. 
M.  A.  Sheldon,  Private.  Co.  F.     Missing. 
Placicle  Bossier,  Private,  Co.  G-.     Killed. 
S.  Eishworth,  Private,  Co.  G.     AVounded  seriously. 
L.  Charles,  Private,  Co.  G.     AVounded  slightly. 
II.  Hughes,  Jr.,  Private,  Co.  G.     AVounded  slightly. 
J.  Hoffman,  Private,  Co.  G.     AVounded  slightly. 
Samuel  Ilynes,  Private,  Co.  G.     AVounded  slightly. 
A.  J.  Sing,  Private,  Co.  G.     Wounded  slightly. 
M.  Toal,  Private,  Co.  G.     AVounded  slightly. 
T.  C.  Humble,  2d  Lieutenant,  Co.  I.     AVounded  seriously. 
L.  Levy,  Private,  Co.  I.     AVounded  slightly. 
James  Hines,  Private,  Co.  I.     AVounded  slightly. 
17 


386  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

T.  McB.  Meredith,  Private,  Co.  I.     Wounded  slightly. 
J.  B.  Trvin,  2d  Lieutenant,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 
Charles  Hall,  Corporal,  Co.  K.     Wounded  seriously. 
W.  Monget,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  seriously. 
J.  C.  Williams,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  seriously. 
W.  T.  Board,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 
A.  J.  Bel],  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 
M.  Gurran,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 
X.  L.  Knox,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 
E.  A.  Floyd,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 
J.  M.  Nelson,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 
T.  R.  Wallers,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 
Silas  Russ,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 

RECAPITULATION. 

Killed 0 

Wounded 48 

Missing 3 

Total GO 

LIST  OF  CASUALTIES,  3D  REGIMENT  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY,  McCuL- 
Locn's  BRIGADE,  AT  THE  BATTLE  OF  ELK  HOEN  (PEA  RIDGE), 
AFJL,  MARCH  7,  1862. 

L.  Hebert,  Colonel.     Prisoner. 
W.  F.  Tunnard,  Major.     Prisoner. 
Henderson,  R.,  Private,  Co.  B.     Prisoner. 
Alford,  W.  II.,  Sergeant,  Co.  C.     Killed. 
Grove,  D.  E.,  Sergeant,  Co.  D.     Wounded. 
Caradine,  J.,  Private,  Co.  D.     Wounded. 
Springer,  H.,  Private,  Co.  D.     Wounded. 
Craig,  J.,  Co.  F.     Killed. 
Cain,  F.,  Co.  F.     Wounded.  " 
Miller,  M.  T.,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
Singer,  L.  J.,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
Jus,  J.  F.,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
Duval,  D.  S.,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
Wols,  C.,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
Kimball,  J.,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
Bernes,  F.,  Private,  Co.  G.     Prisoner. 
Cannon,  D.,  Private,  Co.  G.     Prisoner. 
Dew,  L.,  Private,  Co.  G.     Prisoner. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  387 

Hitzman,  J.  Private,  Co.  G.     Prisoner. 
Prudhomme,  J.  A.,  Private,  Co.  G.     Wounded. 
Phillips,  E.,  Private,  Co.  G,     Prisoner. 
Howe,  A.  H.,  Private,  Co.  G.     "Wounded. 
Schroder,  C.  F.,  Private,  Co.  G.     Killed. 
Warner,  B.  F.,  Private,  Co.  G.     Killed. 
Beard,  W.  A.,  Sergeant,  Co.  II.     Killed. 
Corbin,  W.  P.,  Private,  Co.  II.     Killed. 
Only,  J.  T.,  Private,  Co.  II.     Killed. 
Perry,  J.  E.,  Private,  Co.  II.     Killed. 
Sharplin,  W.  P.,  Private,  Co.  H.     Killed. 
Singleton,  S.  S.,  Private,  Co.  II.     Killed. 
Srnythe,  N.  B.,  Private,  Co.  II.     Killed. 
Broadway,  J.  T.,  Sergeant,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Beale,  W.  H.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Banks.  A.  J.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Wounded. 
Cantelope,  F.  E.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Cain,  F.  T.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Dunn,  T.  J.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Freeman,  D.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Wounded. 
Ferrand,  C.  A.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Gregory,  W.  A.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner, 
Jenkins,  W.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Killed. 
Kelly,  J.  F.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Lawson,  W.  P.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Wounded. 
Mason,  D.  F.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Meredith,  R.  B.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Kay,  B.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Smith,  P.  R.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
Vaughn,  J.  L.,  Private,  Co.  I.     Wounded. 
Viglini,  J.  P.,  Captain,  Co.  K.     Prisoner. 
Cain,  W.  P.,  Private,  Co.  K.     Killed. 
Echols,  D.,  Private,  Co.  K.     Prisoner.   * 

LIST  OF  CASUALTIES  3D  REGIMENT  LA.  INFANTRY,  HEBERT'S  BRI 
GADE,  PRICE'S  ARMY,  AT  THE  BATTLE  OF  IUKA,  Miss.,  SEPT.  19, 
1862. 

J.  B.  Gilmore,  Lieutenant-Colonel.     Wounded. 
J.  II.  Brigham,  Adjutant.  " 

J.  Kinney,  Captain,  Go.  A. 
U.  Babin,  Lieutenant,  Co.  A.     Missing. 


388  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

J.  Ramouin,  Lieutenant,  Co.  A.     Killed. 
Joly,  Sergeant,  Co.  A.     Wounded. 

D.  Bridges,  Corporal,  Co.  A.     Killed. 
J.  Richard,  Corporal,  Co.  A.     Missing. 
A.  Gourrier,  Private,  Co.  A.     Killed. 

J.  H.  Breaux,  Private,  Co.  A.  Wounded. 

E.  L.  Breaux,  Private,  Co.  A.  " 
K  Gayarre,  Private,  Co.  A.  " 
T.  Gourrier,  Private,  Co.  A. 

W.  Sanders,  Private,  Co.  A.  " 

M.  Landry,  Private,  Co.  A. 

M.  Brassard,  Private,  Co.  A.     Missing. 

Renwick,  Lieutenant,  Co.  B.     Wounded. 

Brown,  Sergeant,  Co.  B.  " 

Whittaker,  Corporal,  Co.  B.  " 

Buckmaster,  Private,  Co.  B. 

Bass,  Private,  Co.  B.  " 

J.  Blankenship,  Private,  Co.  B.  " 

W.  Cooper,  Private,  Co.  B.  " 

T.  Cravens,  Private,  Co.  B.  " 

D.  M.  Evans,  Private,  Co.  B.  " 

W.  S.  Finley,  Private,  Co.  B.  " 

T.  Finn,  Private,  Co.  B.  " 

A.  C.  Harrison,  Private,  Co.  B.  " 

W.  M.  Wasliburu,  Lieutenant,  Co.  B.     Missing. 

Stewart,  Sergeant,  Co.  B.     Missing. 
S.  W.  Whorley,  Private,  Co.  B.     Missing. 

A.  W.  McKain,  Lieutenant,  Co.  0.     Killed. 

B.  F.  Thelpal,  Private,  Co.  C.     Killed. 
D.  Pierson,  Captain,  Co.  C.     Wounded. 
II.  M.  Crew,  Private,  Co.  C.          " 

W.  Morehead,  Private,  Co.  C.      " 

A.  J.  Perry,  Private,  Co.  C.  " 

G.  L.  Trichel,  Lieutenant,  Co.  D.     Wounded. 

B.  Davis,  Sergeant,  Co.  D.  " 
T.  H.  McCaskey,  Private,  Co.  D.  " 

A.  Leplant,  Private,  Co.  D.  " 
W.  W.  Joy,  Private,  Co.  D.  " 
J.  Charleville,  Private,  Co.  D.                  " 

B.  Norwood,  Sergeant,  Co.  E.     Killed. 
R.  Barton,  Private,  Co.  E.     Killed. 

R.  C.  Holt,  Lieutenant,  Co.  E.     Wounded. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA   INFANTRY.  389 


P.  Pierson,  Private,  Co.  E.         "Wounded. 
J.  Myers,  Private,  Co.  E. 
—  Masterton,  Private,  Co.  E.  " 

T.  Brigham,  Private,  Co.  E.     Missing. 
W.  Henderson,  Private,  Co.  E.     Missing. 
D.  C.  Ballard,  Private,  Co.  E.     Missing. 
M.  O.  Clark,  Sergeant,  Co.  F.     Killed. 
J.  Horn,  Lieutenant,  Co.  F.     Wounded. 
W.  T.  Hudson,  Sergeant,  Co.  F.      " 

D.  W".  Manning,  Private,  Co.  F.      " 
Jules  Jus,  Private,  Co.  F.  " 

J.  A.  White,  Sergeant,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
R.  Dick,  Corporal,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
L.  J.  Singer,  Private,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
R.  L.  Perry,  Private,  Co.  F.     Prisoner. 
J.  M.  Tauzin,  Sergeant,  Co.  G.     Killed. 
M.  S.  Hailman,  Private,  Co.  G.     Killed. 

F.  N.  Sanchez,  Corporal,  Co.  G.     Wounded. 
C.  V.  Murphy,  Corporal,  Co.  G.  " 

R.  Alleman,  Private,  Co.  G.  " 

W.  A.  Charleville,  Private,  Co.  G.         « 
A.  Dickens,  Private,  Co.  G.  " 

M.  Escobeda,  Private,  Co.  G.  " 

J.  Ginchan,  Private,  Co.  G.  " 

J.  Guiton,  Private,  Co.  G.  " 

J.  P.  Hyams,  Private,  Co.  G.  " 

J.  G.  Norris,  Private,  Co.  G.     Missing. 
M.  S.  Hartman,  Private,  Co.  G.     Missing, 
W.  S.  Behrnian,  Private,  Co.  G.     Missing. 

E.  Genehan,  Private,  Co.  G.     Missing. 
J.  D.  Beckman,  Private,  Co.  H.     Killed. 
J.  McDonald,  Private,  Co.  H.     Killed. 
S.  Singleton,  Private,  Co.  H.     Killed. 

H.  T.  Horten,  Sergeant,  Co.  H.     Wounded. 
W.  F.  Bonner,  Private,  Co.  H.  u 

S.  B.  McCarty,  Private,  Co.  H.  " 

G.  Higgius,  Private,  Co.  H.  " 
C.  Hedrick,  Lieutenant,  Co.  II.  " 
N.  Murfie,  Private,  Co.  H.     Prisoner. 
J.  Reese,  Private,  Co.  H.     Prisoner. 

S.  J.  Howell,  Sergeant,  Co.  I.    Killed. 
W.  H.  Beale,  Private,  Co.  I.     Killed. 


390  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

J.  E.  Johnson,  Captain,  Co.  I.     Wounded. 
J.  O.  McCormick,  Private,  Co.  I.         " 
J.  B.  Johnson,  Private,  Co.  I.  " 

F.  E.  Cantelope,  Private,  Co.  I.          " 
L.  L.  Cain,  Private,  Co.  I.  " 

F.  F.  Cain,  Private,  Co.  I.  " 

W.  C.  Noble,  Private,  Co.  I.  " 

J.  Hayne,  Private,  Co.  I.  " 

J.  M.  Flowers,  Private,  Co.  I.     Missing. 
Geo.  K.  Runnels,  Private,  Co.  I.     Missing. 
W.  Dowd,  Sergeant,  Co.  I.     Prisoner. 
M.  White,  Corporal,  Co,  I.     Prisoner. 
J.  B.  Irvin,  1st  Lieutenant,  Co.  K.     Killed. 
II.  Heasch,  Musician,  Co.  K.     Killed. 
R.  Denham,  Private,  Co.  K.     Killed. 
H.  H.  Gentles,  Captain,  Co.  K.     Wounded. 

E.  Jolly,  Sergeant,  Co.  K.  " 
J.  II.  Bells,  Sergeant,  Co.  K.                  " 
J.  Roddy,  Corporal,  Co.  K.                    " 
M.  Brandenstein,  Corporal,  Co.  K.       " 
J.  Caffrey,  Private,  Co.  K.                     " 

F.  D.  Tunnard,  Private,  Co.  K. 

A.  Roysden,  Private,  Co.  K.  " 

B.  F.  Hickman,  Private,  Co.  K.  " 
A.  F.  Cameron,  Private,  Co.  K.  " 
J.  Hock,  Private,  Co.  K.     Prisoner. 

D.  Echols,  Private,  Co.  K.     Prisoner. 
Field  and  Staff  Wounded . . 


RECAPITULATION. 

Killed 18 

Wounded 71 

Missing 14 

Prisoners 10 

Total 113 

LIST  OF  CASUALTIES  3o  REGIMENT  LA.  INFANTRY,  HEBERT'S  BRI 
GADE,  AT  THE  BATTLE  OF  CORINTH,  OCTOBER  3  AND  4,  1862. 

S.  D.  Davis,  Sergeant,  Co.  A.  Missing. 
W.  Sanders,  Private,  Co.  A.  Wounded. 
J.  I).  Maxwell,  Private,  Co.  B.  Missing. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  391 

D.  Norton,  Private,  Co.  B.     Missing. 

T.  C.  Higginbothem,  Private,  Co.  B.     Missing. 

G.  B.  Quinn,  Private,  Co.  B.     Missing. 

A.  Neuman,  Private,  Co.  C.     Missing. 

B.  P.  Morse,  Lieutenant,  Co.  D.     Wounded. 
J.  Merritt,  Private,  Co.  D.     Wounded. 

D.  Dodez,  Private,  Co.  F.     Wounded. 
Jones,  Private,  Co.  F.     Wounded. 
Marr,  Private,  Co.  F.     Missing. 
Lowe,  Corporal,  Co.  G.     Wounded. 
Keiser,  Corporal,  Co.  G.     Wounded. 

C.  S.  Jeter,  Private,  Co.  H.     Wounded. 
S.  L.  Reese,  Private,  Co.  H.     Missing. 

E,  M.  Douglass,  Private,  Co.  I.     Wounded. 

E.  Girod,  Private,  Co.  I.     Wounded. 

S.  J.  Moffit,  Private,  Co.  I.     Wounded. 

D.  March,  Private,  Co.  I.     Missing. 

J.  D.  Williams,  Lieutenant,  Co.  K.     Wounded  seriously. 
D.  Lewis,  Sergeant,  Co.  K.     Wounded  seriously. 
J.  II.  Robertson,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  seriously. 
B.  F.  Ilickman,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 

F.  Taquino,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly. 

W.  L.  Edmondson,  Private,  Co.  K.     Wounded  slightly, 
A.  Dalsheimer,  Private,  Co.  K.     Prisoner. 
A.  F.  Cameron,  Private,  Co.  K.     Prisoner. 

FIELD    AND    STAFF. 

Major  S.  D.  Russell,  wounded. 
Sergeant-Major  McFee,  killed. 

RECAPITULATION. 

Killed,  Field  and  Staff 1 

Wounded 1 

Wounded 17 

Missing  and  Prisoners 11 

Total 30 

LIST  OF  CASUALTIES  3D  REGIMENT  LOUISIANA  INFANTRY,  HE- 
BKBT'S  BRIGADE,  FORNEY'S  DIVISION,  DURING  THE  SIEGE  OF 
VICKSBURG,  MAY  18  TO  JULY  4,  186 3. 

Field  and  Staff. — Lieutenant-Colonel  S.  D.  Russel,  seriously  ; 
Major  D.  Pierson,  Slightly  ;  General  Hebert's  Staff,  Captain  C.  A. 
Brusle,  seriously. 


392  A   SOUTHERN   RECORD. 

COMPANY  "A,"  IBEUVILLE  GREYS.— Killed—  Captain  J.  Kenney, 
Lieutenant  J.  Randolph.  Private* — N.  Schade,  F.  Leonard,  J.  P. 
Chastant,  Amide  Hebert,  B.  Berry,  C.  Dupuy,  J.  Breaux.  Wounded 
Seriously — Sergeant  M.  Bassac,  L.  D.  Blanchard,  C.  Pruett,  S.  Allain, 
J.  Connor,  W.  McGuinness,  S.  Kohn,  M.  O'Brien.  Wounded  Slightly 
— Sergeant  H.  Guidice,  Lieutenant  U.  Babin,  P.  T.  St.  Amant,  P. 
C.  Wellis. 

COMPANY  "  B,"  MOREHOUSE  GUARDS. — Killed — Sergeant  J.  T. 
Sharp,  Sergeant  W.  II.  Howell,  Sergeant  B.  Brice,  Corporal  S. 
Smith,  Corporal  T.  McFee.  Privates— W.  Finley,  J.  N.  Hewett,  J. 
Lee,  F.  M.  Howell,  J.  W.  Naif,  J.  C.  May.  Wounded  Seriously — 
Lieutenant  W.  P.  Renwick.  Private*— II.  C.  Fryer,  H.  Kelly,  J.  M. 
Burke,  A.  Williams,  T.  H.  Johnson.  Wounded  Slightly — Lieutenant 
W.  M.  Washburn,  Lieutenant  Joe  Davenport,  Sergeant  J.  M.  Sharp. 
Privates — D.  Buckmaster,  W.  McCallaghan,  D.  Shoemaker,  J.  W. 
Blankenship,  S.  W.  Sanders,  J.  M.  Smith,  B.  Q.  Vaughn,  -  —  Tatle, 
F.  M.  Worley,  T.  N.  Higgenbothem. 

COMPANY  "  C,"  WINX  RIFLES. — Killed—  Corporal  W.  A.  Hallow- 
man,  T.  J.  Teddlie.  Wounded  Seriously — Privates — G.  C.  Spillman, 
N.  Moody,  J.  K  McBride,  W.  J.  Carson,  W.  Evans,  W.  J.  Tedley. 
Wounded  Slightly— Captain  K  M.  Middlebrooks,  Lieutenant  W.  T. 
Fagan,  T.  Williams,  W.  Smith,  R.  Cole. 

COMPANY  "  D,"  PELICAN  RANGERS,  No.  2.— Killed—  Sergeant  W. 
W.  Gandy.  Privates— H.  V.  Edmonson,  T.  Cobb,  B.  Duke,  R.  C. 
Hammett.  Wounded  Seriously— P.  Gillett,  W.  Badt,  J.  McDaniel, 
J.  Fonteneau,  J.  Merritt.  Wounded  Slightly  —  Captain  W.  E. 
Russell. 

COMPANY  "  E,"  MOREHOUSE  FENCIBLES. — Killed — D.  A.  Gwinn, 
Silas  Crane, Masterton,  Wounded  Seriously — Sergeant  G.  Mil 
ler,  R.  Quinn.  Wounded  Slightly — Lieutenant  R.  C.  Halt.  Privates 
— T.  D.  Downey,  A.  J.  Powell,  J.  Myers,  Esom. 

COMPANY  "  F,"  SHREVEPORT  RANGERS. — Killed — Sergeant  T.  M. 
Roberts,  Lieutenant  J.  Horn.  Wounded  Seriously — Lieutenant  J.  O. 
Clark,  P.  L.  Permery,  L.  J.  Singer,  J.  Charlton,  George  Efner,  Cor 
poral  Scanlan,  J.  Brosi,  J.  Jus.  Wounded  Slightly — F.  A.  Davis,  P. 
Sheridan,  T.  N.  Dill,  R.  T.  Cole,  W.  Hudson,  R.  Brenning. 

COMPANY  "  G,"  PELICAN  RANGERS,  No.  1. — Killed — D.  Cannon, 
F.  Escobeda,  E.  Carro,  L.  Floris,  M.  Escobeda,  J.  R.  Howell. 


THIRD   LOUISIANA    INFANTRY.  393 

Wounded  Seriously — 1ST.  Morn,  J.  Quinclty,  J.  Guiton,  A.  Garza. 
•  Escobeda,  Sergeant  J.  A.  Derbonne,  J.  Morin,  C.  D.  Castex, 

Wounded  Slightly — Lieutenant  P.  Bassier, Murray,  A.  Wrinkle, 

L.  Ilubbard,  L.  Floris,  C.  Castex,  R.  Aleinand. 

COMPANY  "H,"  MONTTCELLO  RIFLES. — Killed — Corporal  J.  A. 
Martin,  J.  Veal,  W.  Burns,  J.  C.  Reese.  Wounded  Seriously — J. 
McCowan,  L.  P.  Simps,  J.  F.  Hargrove,  J.  Byrd.  Wounded  Slightly 
— Lieutenant  J.  Stuart. 

COMPANY  "  I,"  CALDWELL  GUARDS. — Killed — Captain  J.  E.  John 
son,  Corporal  P.  Lawson,  Corporal  A.  Kelly,  T.  J.  Dunn,  L.  Stewart, 
J.  L.  Vaughan,  E.  Douglas,  F.  Ray.  Wounded  Seriously—  Sergeant 
J.  R.  Gray,  Sergeant  J.  Sandridge,  E.  Girod,  G.  W.  Humble,  W.  A. 
McQuatters,  J.  A.  McCormick.  Wounded  Slightly— Corporal  J.  C. 
Rice,  Corporal  G.  P.  Mouraiu,  M.  V.  Ray,  A.  Girod,  H.  C.  Hough,  J. 
Hines,  G.  T.  McFurland,  P.  Smith,  M.  P.  Cartw-right,  M.  Sandridge. 

COMPANY  "If,"  PELICAN  RIFLES. — Killed— Corporal  M.  Branden- 
stein,  A.  V.  Duffy,  E.  J.  Benton,  L.  J.  Benton,  B.  F.  Hickman,  Cor 
poral  D.  Echols.  Wounded  Seriously — Sergeant  E.  Jolly,  J.  F.  Cham 
bers,  W.  L.  Edmonson.  Wounded  Slightly — Corporal  S.  P.  Russ, 
H.  Finlay. 

This  list  is  very  imperfect,  being  compiled  from  private  notes, 
without  the  aid  of  any  official  documents.  The  total  loss  in  the 
regiment  reached  nearly,  if  not  more  than  200,  out  of  a  total  of  not 
quite  400  men. 


17* 


APPENDIX. 


I  cannot  close  this  volume  without  a  special  acknowledgment  of 
my  indebtedness  to  my  friends  for  their  interest  in  my  labors,  and 
for  furnishing  valuable  documents  and  papers.  I  am  under  special 
obligations  to  Hon.  Charles  A.  Brusle,  Iberville  ;  Major  J.  M.  Taylor, 
IT.  V.  Babin,  and  F.  D.  Tunnard,  Baton  Rouge  ;  J.  Harvey  Brig- 
ham,  J.  Davenport  Bustrop,  J.  Leonard,  Plaquemine ;  W.  Kcnney, 
Dr.  G.  W.  Kendall,  Colonel  J.  B.  Gilniore,  Shreveport ;  L.  Dupleix, 
Esq.,  J.  C.  Trichel,  Miss  Jennie  Barlow,  ISTatchitoches  ;  Colonel  D. 
Pierson,  Colonel  S.  M.  Hyams,  Colonel  J.  D.  Blair,  New  Orleans ; 
Major  J.  S.  Richards  Floyd,  Captain  W.  B.  Butler,  Natchitoches 
Parish ;  G.  W.  Humble,  T.  McB.  Meredith,  Columbia,  La. ;  A.  B. 
Payne  ,  and  A.  Booth,  Baton  Rogue. 

To  these  friends,  who  have  encouraged  me  in  the  prosecution  of 
my  labor  in  compiling  this  History  do  I  feel  deedly  grateful,  and  thus 
make  acknowledgment  of  my  gratitude  by  the  mention  of  their 
names.  Many  of  the  interesting  records  of  this  volume  arc  duo  to 
their  prompt  assistance  and  kind  remembrance.  I  sincerely  trust 
that  they  may  feel  repaid  by  a  perusal  of  its  pages. 

W.  H.  TUNNARD. 


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